Two people have died and several more are in hospital, following an outbreak of an “invasive” disease at the University of Kent.

Health officials say they are aware of 13 cases of invasive meningococcal disease in the Canterbury area since Friday, but the specific strain isn’t yet known.

Meningococcal disease a rapidly progressing bacterial infection, which often leads to conditions such as meningitis and septicaemia. It is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria.

The cases have been reported between Friday (13 March) and Sunday (15 March).

On Sunday evening, the University of Kent confirmed one of those who died was a university student.

A spokesperson told ITV Meridian: “We are deeply saddened to confirm that one student from the University of Kent has died following a case of invasive meningitis.

“Our thoughts are with the student’s family, friends and the wider university community at this extremely difficult time.

“The safety of our students and staff remains our highest priority. We are working closely with public health teams and are in touch with staff and students to ensure they get the advice and support they need.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and keep our community informed.”

A building on the University of Kent campus. Credit: ITV Meridian

Symptoms of meningitis include symptoms such as headache, fever and a stiff neck. Anyone who feels unwell, or believes they may have the disease, should call 111, health bosses said.

If you are seriously ill, the advice is to go straight to hospital or dial 999 immediately.

The UK Health Security Agency and the NHS are now arranging antibiotics for some students at the University of Kent following the incident.

ITV Meridian understands that students with no symptoms will be able to access antibiotics on the University campus tomorrow (Monday 16 March).

In the meantime, those who are well and currently symptom free, should not attend hospital, as it could delay treatment for those who genuinely need it.

People should also check in on friends who are unwell. Taking action, the UKHSA says, is vital, and “could save their life”.

The University of Kent told ITV Meridian that it is working with the NHS and UKHSA to ensure staff and students are informed of the situation.

A promotional poster displaying the signs of sepsis. Credit: UK Sepsis Trust

The UKHSA says that “very occasionally” meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness, including inflammation of the lining of the brain and blood poisoning, which can rapidly lead to sepsis.

Trish Mannes, UKHSA regional deputy director for the South East, said: “We understand that many people at the university and in the wider community will be affected by this sad news and we would like to offer our condolences to the friends and family involved.

“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.

“Advice and support is being offered to the wider student community, and to local hospitals and NHS 111, and we’re monitoring the situation closely.

“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.

“Students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs of meningitis because they can be easily confused with other illnesses such as a bad cold, flu or even a hangover.

“That’s why 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.”

Antibiotics can kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Credit: PA

Tom Nutt, chief executive of Meningitis Now, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the deaths of two young people following the reported outbreak of meningitis linked to the University of Kent.

“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 meningitis bacteria can spread more easily in settings where people live, study and socialise closely together.

“We urge students, staff and families to remain vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis.”

There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection.

The MenACWY vaccination gives protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY and is routinely offered to teenagers in school Years 9 and 10 – and it can be given up to the age of 25 if it has been missed.

However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningitis. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults.

Reporting History sees journalists join News At Ten anchor Tom Bradby to revisit their remarkable on-the-day reports of the defining events of the modern age. Listen to the episodes below…