University of Warwick issues advice to students amid UK meningitis outbreak

The University of Warwick and Warwick’s Student’s Union have shared advice and medical information amid the confirmed meningitis B outbreak in Kent.

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes in the spinal cord and brain, and can be fatal. There are two types of meningitis: while the bacterial infection is more common, the viral infection is more serious, and is the strain that is currently spreading in Kent.

At this time, we are not aware of any cases linked to Warwick

University of Warwick spokesperson

University students are deemed as one of the most vulnerable to this disease, because they typically live in new areas and in close proximity with each other.

The University of Warwick has confirmed that they are following UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) guidelines, and urges the community to “familiarise themselves with the signs of meningitis, such as fever, headache, vomiting, drowsiness or a non‑blanching rash, and to seek immediate medical help if concerned”.

A University spokesperson also said that “at this time, we are not aware of any cases linked to Warwick. We have made our staff and students aware of the ongoing situation in Kent and shared UKHSA’s advice, including information on symptoms of meningitis and how to seek immediate medical help if concerned.

“We understand this may be a worrying time, and we will continue to share updates as we receive further advice.”

University advice also urges students to check if they have received their meningitis ACWY vaccine, even though it is the meningitis B strain that is active in Kent.

As of Monday 23 March, there were a total of 20 confirmed cases and two deaths. To combat what Wes Streeting, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, has called an “unprecedented” situation, the government has initiated a targeted vaccination programme.

Vaccinations are currently being offered to close contacts of confirmed cases and students living in halls of residence at the University of Kent, with antibiotics also being distributed.

Find out more about The Boar’s investigation into student knowledge on meningitis here.