Two meningitis deaths reported in Canterbury: What to look for
Young people at greater risk of developing meningitis
Following reports of a meningitis outbreak, a school pupil and a University of Kent student have died in Canterbury.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been informed of 13 meningitis cases occurring between Friday and Sunday, though the exact strain remains unidentified.
Meningitis is an infection affecting the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord, typically caused by bacterial or viral infections.
While both can affect anyone, bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis.
Speaking to us Brian Davies, from Meningitis Research UK said this:
"First and foremost, I just want to say from behalf of everyone at Meningitis Research Foundation, our faults with everyone who's been affected by this, especially the families, friends and communities of those who are seriously ill or have died."
"So meningitis can become serious very quickly. So it's really important that people understand the signs of symptoms, that they trust their instincts and they seek urgent medical care when it comes ill."
"So the symptoms that people should look out for are symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion and sometimes a rash. The message we would give to people is please don't wait for a rash. "
"Do trust your instincts and that's really important."
"If you know someone or see someone who's seriously unwell and you're concerned, please do get urgent medical care because meningitis can act really, really quickly."
Symptoms to watch out for
Symptoms of meningitis and sepsis may include a high temperature, cold extremities, vomiting, confusion, muscle pain, blotchy skin, headaches, stiff neck, aversion to light, fatigue, and seizures.
These symptoms can manifest in any order, and some may not be present at all.
Why young people are more vulnerable
According to Meningitis Now, one in four 15 to 19-year-olds carry meningococcal bacteria in their throats, compared to one in 10 of the UK population.
This bacteria can spread through coughing, sneezing, and kissing, though many carry it without illness.
Frequent social interactions and communal living conditions, such as university halls, increase the chance of bacteria spreading among young people.
Managing the spread in Canterbury
The UKHSA, alongside the University of Kent, is addressing the outbreak.
Close contacts of affected students are receiving antibiotics, and interviews are being conducted to identify all who may be at risk.
Advice letters with information on symptoms and antibiotic access have been distributed to the university's 16,000 students.
Treatment options and vaccinations
For bacterial meningitis, hospital treatment is advised, which may include antibiotics, fluids, and oxygen therapy. Viral infections often resolve naturally, although severe cases may require hospital care.
Vaccines, like MenACWY, are available to help protect teenagers and university-age individuals against meningococcal strains.
While highly effective, uptake among teenagers is approximately 73%, according to Andrew Preston from the University of Bath.
In addition to MenACWY, other vaccines are available for younger children, including MenB and MMRV vaccines.
Action to take
If you suspect meningitis, the NHS recommends calling 999 or visiting A&E. As symptoms can rapidly worsen, trusting instincts is advised.