Meningitis strain behind horror Kent outbreak that killed 2 revealed after mutation fears

Health chiefs have named the strain of meningitis behind the Kent outbreak as group B after three schools confirmed cases - a sixth form pupil and a university student have died

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has identified the strain of meningitis behind the deadly outbreak in Kent.

Tests show the infections belong to group B meningitis - known as MenB.

Three schools in the area have now confirmed cases of the illness after an outbreak killed two students and others were admitted to hospital.

One of those who died was a year 13 student called Juliette, who was described by her headteacher at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham in Kent as “incredibly kind, thoughtful and intelligent”.

The other person who died attended the University of Kent. Some of those in hospital are now thought to have been put into induced comas.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said on Monday evening it was continuing to investigate the outbreak of meningitis, with 13 cases reported since March 13, including the two deaths.

Anyone who visited the nightclub Club Chemistry in Canterbury on March 5, 6 or 7 has been urged to come forward for antibiotics as a “precautionary measure”.

The club’s owner said more than 2,000 people would have attended the club over those dates.

Trish Mannes, UKHSA regional deputy director for the South East, said: “Our thoughts remain with the friends and family involved and we understand that many people in the university and wider community will be affected by this sad news.

“Our investigations have identified that some cases visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury and it is important that anyone who visited the club between 5th and 7th March now comes forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precaution, as well as those offered antibiotics at the university – these students are being contacted directly through the university.”

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