UPDATE: Teesside University has contacted all students with information about managing meningitis risk following the fatal outbreak in Kent.
Earlier this week, student leader Daniel Harland called for more action on campus following the deaths of two people in the South East.
University students are said to be one of the groups most at risk.
Harland, Home President-elect at Teesside University, said: “The compact nature of the accommodation at Teesside, plus the manner of transmission of meningitis, will mean an awareness campaign at the university is necessary.
“While I don’t know of any plans with the university yet, I’ll be pushing for a public awareness campaign as soon as possible.
“In my view, anti-vaxxers cause an unacceptable significant risk to the wider population, especially to those who medically cannot receive a vaccine.”
A spokesman for Teesside University confirmed that an information campaign was underway.
He added: “We would like to offer our heartfelt sympathy to all those who have been affected by the tragic events in Canterbury this week.
“The safety and wellbeing of students and staff is our highest priority. All our students are provided with information about how to prevent the spread and transmission of meningitis during induction and we have additional support at key locations throughout campus.
“Following this week’s events, we are also contacting our students directly reminding them of what symptoms to be aware of and how best to protect themselves.”
According to NHS England, the ACWY vaccine is offered to teenagers in schools and can be given up to the age of 25.
Meningitis is a growing concern with the latest statistics from UKHSA showing that there are 378 cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in 2024/25, compared to 340 in 2023/24.
After speaking to NHS UK, we were directed towards the latest statement issued by the UK Health Security Agency.
This statement suggests that 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.
They advise that if a friend goes to bed unwell, you should check on them regularly and don’t hesitate to seek medical help.
According to Meningitis Research Foundation, vaccines don’t protect against all causes of meningitis. There are vaccines that provide protection against the most common causes of the disease and can reduce the chance of infection.
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can affect anyone but its more common in babies and young children, teenagers, older people and people with weak immune systems.
Meningitis is usually spread by people who carry these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat but are not ill themselves.
What meningitis signs should you look out for?
- A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
- Sudden high fever
- Severe and worsening headache
- Stiff neck
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Joint and muscle pain
- Dislike of bright lights
- Very cold hands and feet
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Extreme sleepiness/ difficulty waking
If you think yourself or a friend may have meningitis, you should immediately seek help at the closest Accident and Emergency Department or by dialling 999.
Story by Nell Poole
Audio content by Adele Marshall, Chloe Bishop and Megan Turner:
