Two young students have died amid an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease in southern England, with 11 more cases confirmed, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported.
The outbreak appears to be connected to student communities in Canterbury, Kent, according to CNN on Monday.
One of the victims was a student at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham. “We are all absolutely devastated,” said Headteacher Amelia McIlroy.
In response, the UKHSA is reaching out to more than 30,000 students, staff, and their families to inform them of the situation and provide guidance.
What’s meningitis?
Invasive meningococcal disease is caused by meningococcal bacteria and can lead to meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, as well as septicemia, a serious bloodstream infection. The disease can become life-threatening if not identified and treated promptly, highlighting the urgency for early medical attention.
Symptoms of meningitis and sepsis include:
- a high temperature
- cold hands and feet
- vomiting
- confusion
- breathing quickly
- muscle and joint pain
- pale, mottled or blotchy skin (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- spots or a rash (this may be harder to see on brown or black skin)
- headache
- a stiff neck
- a dislike of bright lights
- being very sleepy or difficult to wake
- fits (seizures)
