Two people have died following an outbreak of meningitis, including one student at the University of Kent.
BBC South East understands that a further 11 people from the Canterbury area are currently in hospital and reported to be seriously ill.
It is understood that most are aged between 18 and 21 and a number are students at the university.
Both people who have died in the “invasive” meningitis outbreak are believed to be aged between 18 and 21
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxg35dv7npo
🚨 PICTURED: Students at the University of Kent queue for meningitis antibiotics pic.twitter.com/UZHEotxxag
— Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) March 16, 2026
Meningitis can progress very quickly and its impact is devastating, particularly for young people and their loved ones. University students and young adults are among the groups at increased risk because they are more likely to carry the bacteria that can cause meningitis, and because bacteria can spread more easily in settings where students and young people live, study and socialise closely together.
We urge students, young people, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis, which can include a high fever, severe headache, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, cold hands and feet, limb pain, and, in some cases, a rash that does not fade under pressure.
h/t A Deplorable Neanderthal