Two people have died after an ‘invasive’ outbreak of meningitis at a British university.

A further 11 people are said to be currently in hospital and seriously ill.

More than 30,000 students, staff and their families have been contacted by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to inform them of the deaths.

The UKHSA said it was notified of 13 cases – with signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia from Friday to Sunday.

It is understood most of the unwell are aged between 18 and 21 and are students at the University of Kent.

The outbreak is thought to be linked to a social event in Canterbury, which some of those who fell ill attended, the BBC reports.

The UKHSA says it is arranging antibiotics for some students in the Canterbury area following the outbreak, though the specific strain is yet to be identified.

Symptoms of meningitis include a high fever, being sick and a severe and worsening headache.

The disease can also cause life-threatening sepsis.

Trish Mannes, UKHSA regional deputy director for the South East, said students should be wary of confusing symptoms for ‘a bad cold, flu, or even a hangover’.

She added: ‘Students and staff will understandably be feeling worried about the risk of further cases; however, we would like to reassure them that close contacts of cases have been given antibiotics as a precautionary measure.

‘Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly, so it’s essential that students and staff are alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, which 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 against a glass.

‘It’s vital that, if a friend goes to bed unwell, you check on them regularly and don’t hesitate to seek medical help by contacting their GP or calling NHS 111 if they have these symptoms or you’re concerned about them. 

‘This could save their life.’

Rosie Duffield, MP for Canterbury, said: ‘Some really tragic news this weekend from our university in Canterbury. 

‘Rumours have been flying around for a few days, but you always hope for better news to come. Thinking very much of those who loved these students.’

A further eleven people from the University of Kent are said to currently be in hospital and are seriously ill (file image)

Meningitis is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults.

It can be fatal within hours of infection and one in 10 people who contract bacterial meningitis will die.

Between 30 per cent and 50 per cent of those who survive the disease will be left with long-term after-effects, including hearing loss, acquired brain injury, epilepsy, chronic pain, vision problems and amputations.

Last year the government urged for an uptake in vaccines to protect against meningitis.

There are two vaccines that fight the main causes of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia. 

One of these is typically offered to infants at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and one year of age, as part of routine NHS vaccinations. 

The other protects teenagers against four strains and is usually given in school Year 9 (aged 13 to 14).

Meningitis Now has urged for increased awareness as new figures reveal a rise in the disease.

The latest statistics from UKHSA show there were 378 cases of IMD in 2024/25, compared to 340 in 2023/24.

The figures also reveal that cases of MenB, the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the UK, have also risen. There were 313 cases compared to 301 in the previous year.

Dr Tom Nutt, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now said: ‘These figures are deeply worrying. Meningitis can affect anyone at any time, but these increases among teenagers, young adults, and babies – some of the most vulnerable groups – show just how vital it is to stay vigilant. 

‘Early recognition saves lives, but prevention through vaccines remains the most effective way to protect against this devastating disease.’

He added: ‘While there has been a drop in meningitis cases over the past decade, these new figures underline why our work, raising awareness, supporting families, and pushing for prevention is as important as ever.’

The charity has also urged people to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of meningitis, and to check whether they are up to date with vaccinations, including the MenACWY jab.

It comes as increases in MenB have been recorded in several age groups, including a 20 per cent increase in cases among 15–19-year-olds (from 52 cases to 65), a 17 per cent increase among babies under 1 year old (from 29 cases to 35), a 17 per cent increase among 25 to 44-year-olds (from 38 cases to 46) and a 19 per cent increase among 45–64-year-olds (from 34 cases to 42).

Anyone who becomes unwell has been urged to go to their closest A&E department or call 999.

The University of Kent has been contacted for comment. 

WHAT IS MENINGITIS?

Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.

Anyone can be affected but at-risk people include those aged under five, 15-to-24 and over 45.

People exposed to passive smoking or with suppressed immune systems, such as patients undergoing chemotherapy, are also more at risk.

The most common forms of meningitis are bacterial and viral.

Symptoms for both include:

• Pale, blotchy skin with a rash that does not fade when compressed with a glass
• Stiff neck
• Dislike of bright lights  
• Fever, and cold hands and feet
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness 
• Severe headache 

Headache is one of the main symptoms

Bacterial meningitis 

Bacterial meningitis requires urgent treatment at hospital with antibiotics.  

Some 10 per cent of bacterial cases are fatal.

Of those who survive, one in three suffer complications, including brain damage and hearing loss. 

Limb amputation is a potential side effect if septicaemia (blood poisoning) occurs.

Vaccines are available against certain strains of bacteria that cause meningitis, such as tuberculosis.

Viral meningitis 

Viral is rarely life-threatening but can cause long-lasting effects, such as headaches, fatigue and memory problems. 

Thousands of people suffer from viral meningitis every year in the UK. 

Treatment focuses on hydration, painkillers and rest.

Although ineffective, antibiotics may be given when patients arrive at hospital just in case they are suffering from the bacterial form of the disease. 

Source: Meningitis Now