‘Unprecedented, Explosive' Deadly Meningitis Outbreak Hits 2 Countries

Two people have died, four other cases are confirmed, and 11 more are under investigation in a deadly meningitis outbreak on a college campus in Kent, United Kingdom. The BBC labeled the outbreak at the University of Kent "explosive" and "unprecedented." Another case was since reported in France.

The UK Health Security Agency wrote on March 17 that the agency "is continuing to investigate an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent. As of 5 p.m. on 16 March, 4 laboratory cases are confirmed and 11 notifications remain under investigation, bringing the total to 15."

Deputy chief medical officer Dr Thomas Waite told the BBC that it "was the quickest growing outbreak he had seen in his career." According to The Nottingham Post, a case has now been identified in France, although it involves someone who went to the University of Kent. Hundreds of doses of antibiotics have been administered to combat the outbreak, The Post reported, adding that the outbreak involves "Meningitis B, amongst the most lethal strains of the disease."

The UK Health Security Agency Called the Outbreak 'Rapidly Evolving'

The UK security agency confirmed the two deaths.

"Sadly, this includes two people who are known to have died. This is a rapidly evolving situation and there may be further cases as those with symptoms are encouraged to seek medical advice," the university wrote. "Investigations have confirmed that some of the cases are group B meningococcal disease." According to the BBC, one of the deaths involved a college student, and the other person was in middle school.

"Given the severity of the situation, a small targeted vaccination programme will begin starting with students resident at Canterbury Campus Halls of Residence at the University of Kent in the coming days," wrote the security agency.

According to the UK agency, "The vaccination programme may be expanded further as UKHSA continues to assess any ongoing risk to other populations. For now, the priority remains for those offered antibiotics to come forward as this is highly effective at preventing the disease and transmission."

"Some of the cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury between 5 and 7 March prior to becoming unwell. UKHSA’s health protection team is working closely with the nightclub and partners including the University of Kent to limit the spread. Students needing antibiotics have been offered them through the university," the statement continued.

Meningitis Is a Disease That Can 'Progress Rapidly'

Meningococcal disease "can progress rapidly. Signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass," the UK agency wrote.

"Early symptoms can often be confused with other illnesses such as a cold, flu or hangover and students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs," added the agency.

Trish Mannes, UKHSA Regional Deputy Director for the South East, said in the statement:
"People who need antibiotic treatment are responding to our calls to come forward and we are working closely with the NHS to ensure these are offered at the various sites throughout today."

She added, "Once again we remind anyone who visited Club Chemistry between 5 and 7 March to come forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precaution, as well as those offered antibiotics at the university."

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