Two university students in the UK have died from meningococcal disease, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed. The cases are understood to be linked to an outbreak at a university in the South East of England.
Trish Mannes, UKHSA regional deputy director for the South East, stated that students can be at risk of missing symptoms as they are "easily confused with other illnesses such as a bad cold, flu or even a hangover." She emphasized the importance of early recognition and seeking urgent medical attention.
Meningococcal disease, which includes meningitis and septicaemia, is a serious bacterial infection. The UKHSA is working closely with the universities involved and local health protection teams to manage the outbreak and provide preventative antibiotics to close contacts.
Health officials are urging students and young people to be aware of the symptoms, which can include a rash that does not fade under pressure, a stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, and a high fever. Vaccination is also recommended as a key preventative measure.
