A rare public health alert has been issued after a fast-moving meningitis outbreak in Kent that has so far left two young people dead and prompted targeted vaccinations at local universities.
Health authorities say there have been around 20 confirmed or suspected cases linked to an incident that appears to have originated at a nightclub in Canterbury.
Officials describe the cluster’s rapid spread as unprecedented.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has asked doctors nationwide to be alert for meningitis symptoms and to act quickly if they suspect infection.
The agency is also coordinating a vaccination drive and the distribution of antibiotics to those at risk.
About 5,000 students at the University of Kent are being offered vaccinations, with immunisation clinics opening in a sports hall and plans in place to deliver the required second doses on campus.
Pharmacies have reported increased demand, with some using queues or waiting lists.
Around 2,500 courses of antibiotics have already been given in Kent.
GPs have been advised to prescribe antibiotics to anyone who attended the Canterbury nightclub between 5 and 7 March, as well as to University of Kent students deemed at risk.
A case has also been confirmed at Canterbury Christ Church University.
That student, and others who fell ill after attending the same nightclub, have been treated; one remains in stable condition in hospital after receiving antibiotics.
University leaders say campuses remain open and essential teaching is continuing, though many students have left the area and others are choosing to stay away from social activities.
Vaccination clinics are operating with teams of nurses to speed up protection for students and staff.
Health officials suspect a super‑spreader event played a role, and they are investigating how the infection moved so quickly through halls of residence and social venues.
The UKHSA is using an alert mechanism it has deployed for other public-health incidents in recent years.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting said the outbreak is local but is being managed at a national level to ensure a rapid response.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer offered condolences to the families of those who have died and stressed that experts are tracing close contacts, supplying antibiotics and rolling out targeted vaccination.
Elsewhere, French authorities reported one person admitted to hospital after returning from England and described their condition as stable.
Locally, five schools in the county have also reported confirmed or suspected cases.
Officials urge anyone who develops symptoms suggestive of meningitis to seek medical attention immediately.
Public health teams continue contact tracing and vaccination efforts to contain the outbreak and protect vulnerable groups.
