Statement from UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Cases of invasive meningococcal disease confirmed in Kent.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is continuing to investigate an outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent with 13 cases confirmed since 13 March. Sadly, this includes two people who are known to have died.

Investigations have confirmed 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.

UKHSA is now advising anyone who visited Club Chemistry on 5 March, 6 March or 7 March to come forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precautionary measure. This can be collected from the following sites:

• Senate Building at University of Kent, CT2 7NZ – open until 8pm on Monday 16 March (queue closes 7.15pm) and from 9am to 8pm on Tuesday, 17 March.
• Gate Clinic, Kent and Canterbury Hospital, Ethelbert Road, Canterbury, CT1 3NG – open until 8pm on Monday 16 March and planned to open from 8.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday, 17 March.
• Westgate Hall, Westgate Hall Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2BT. Planned to be open from 8.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday, 17 March.
• Carey Building, Thanet Hub, Margate Northwood Rd, Westwood, Broadstairs, CT10 2WA. Planned to be open from 8.30am to 7.30pm on Tuesday, 17 March.

Advice has been issued to 16,000 staff and students at the University of Kent, where antibiotics are also being offered to those who need them.

What is meningococcal disease?

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.

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.

If you or anyone you know develops any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately by contacting a GP, calling NHS 111 or dialling 999 in an emergency.

Knowing the signs and taking early treatment can be lifesaving.

Thoughts remain with family and friends of those involved

Trish Mannes, UKHSA Regional Deputy Director for the South East, said: “Our thoughts remain with the friends and family involved and we understand that many people in the university and wider community will be affected by this sad news.

“Our investigations have identified that some cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury and it is important that anyone who visited the club between 5 and 7 March now comes forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precaution, as well as those offered antibiotics at the university – these students are being contacted directly through the university.

“If you think you may have symptoms of meningitis, do not hesitate to seek medical help by contacting your GP or calling NHS 111.”

Meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis.

The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are vital.

Symptoms

Early symptoms, which may not always be present, include:

• a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
• sudden onset of high fever
• severe and worsening headache
• stiff neck
• vomiting and diarrhoea
• joint and muscle pain
• dislike of bright lights
• very cold hands and feet
• seizures
• confusion/delirium
• extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking

Young people going on to university or college for the first time are particularly at risk of meningitis because they newly mix with so many other students, some of whom are unknowingly carrying the bacteria at the back of their nose and throat.

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY. It is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal infection. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as early detection and treatment can save lives. 

Further information on meningococcal disease

• Meningitis – NHS
• The Meningitis Research Foundation
  0808 800 3344 (24 hours)
• Meningitis Now
  0808 80 10 388 (9am to 8pm)