Two Dead, Including Student, from Invasive Meningitis Outbreak in Canterbury, UK

Canterbury. Two people, including a student, have died due to the outbreak of 'Invasive Meningitis' spreading in the Canterbury region of the UK. According to the BBC, 11 others, including students from the University of Kent, have been hospitalized in serious condition due to this infection.

Those who fell ill and died are in the 18 to 21 age group. The university administration has confirmed that one of the two deceased was its own student.

The outbreak of this deadly infection is suspected to be linked to a social event held in Canterbury. To prevent further spread of the infection, the UK Health Security Agency has begun contacting over 30,000 students, staff, and their families.

Those living and working in specific blocks within the campus, in particular, have been urged to take antibiotics without delay. Health experts are currently identifying individuals who have been in contact with the patients.

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can be fatal if not treated in time. Its symptoms include high fever, vomiting, severe headache, and the appearance of rashes on the body. Health officials say that the risk is increased because students often mistake its symptoms for a common cold, flu, or hangover after heavy drinking.

Trish Manns, Deputy Director of UKHSA South East, informed that precautions have been taken to reduce the risk of further infection and that medication has been distributed to those in close contact. Similarly, Dr. Tom Nutt, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now, warned that this bacteria can easily spread among university students because young people tend to live and socialize in groups.