According to foreign media reports, an outbreak of invasive meningococcal disease has occurred in Kent, England, resulting in two deaths and 11 confirmed cases.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a statement on March 16 confirming that some of the cases and deaths involve students from the University of Kent. The agency has collaborated with the university to identify close contacts of those affected and is urging individuals to take antibiotics or receive preventive treatment to contain the outbreak.
Invasive meningococcal disease is caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, which primarily spreads between people through respiratory droplets or secretions. Without timely treatment, the infection can lead to severe illness or death.
The UKHSA confirmed on March 17 that the strain behind the outbreak is Meningitis B (MenB). Health officials have traced the outbreak's origins to Club Chemistry in Canterbury, where some affected individuals visited on March 5-7, and have urged approximately 2,000 attendees to seek preventive antibiotics.
The University of Kent has canceled in-person exams and assessments for the week as a precautionary measure, while maintaining communication with students and staff about available support services.
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