Streeting warns meningitis outbreak is ‘serious and rapidly developing’ as another university hit – London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com

Canterbury Christ Church University has confirmed that one of its students has been diagnosed with meningitis, leading health authorities to issue warnings to those who may have been in close contact.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is investigating the case and taking swift action to prevent further spread.

Students living in halls of residence or attending social events at the university are urged to seek medical advice and, if necessary, receive antibiotics or vaccinations.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting described the situation as “serious and rapidly developing,” announcing that a targeted vaccination program will be implemented in the coming days.

UKHSA officials are working closely with local GPs to ensure that anyone who may have been exposed can receive timely treatment.

In a statement, the university said: “The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has now confirmed one case of meningococcal disease for a CCCU student.

“We have reached out to support the individual directly, and student wellbeing and support are reaching out and making themselves available to support fellow students more widely.

“We have followed UKHSA advice and informed the limited number of close contacts of the individual that they should receive precautionary antibiotics, if they have not done so already.

“The antibiotics prevent individuals from developing the disease and breaks the chain of transmission.

“This case is linked to the initial cluster in Club Chemistry on 5, 6 and 7 March. UKHSA has advised that the risk of transmission for a close contact within the same household (flatmate) is low, and risk of transmission for anyone else remains very low.

“This strain of meningococcal disease does not spread easily, unlike illnesses such as coronavirus, and it is very difficult to contract. The bacteria requires prolonged close and intimate contact to spread.

“We continue to monitor the case closely and work with UKHSA, public health clinicians, and others on the appropriate response. In line with UKHSA advice, our campus remains open, and core teaching, learning, and research activities will continue.”