Health officials in the United Kingdom are investigating a meningitis B outbreak in Canterbury, southwest England, linked to two deaths and up to 20 suspected cases.
The UK Health Security Agency is confirming 11 additional cases, following the deaths of two young people in the university town. Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the general risk remains low despite the severity of the disease.
Meningitis B inflames the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. It spreads through close contact like coughing or kissing. Since 2015, UK newborns receive routine immunization, but teens may lack protection.
Symptoms include sudden fever, chills, neck stiffness, and a non-blanching rash. Definitive strain identification requires lab testing from patient samples.
The outbreak has been traced to a local nightclub, where a staff member is suspected of carrying the bacteria. One victim was a sixth-form student from Faversham.
Antibiotics are being distributed to students and staff. While vaccines require weeks for full immunity, four centers now offer doses to curb transmission. Approximately 11,000 vaccine doses are available.