Club Chemistry: People who visited popular Kent nightclub on these dates urged to ‘come forward’ for treatment amid meningitis outbreak

People who visited a popular Kent nightclub have been urged to “come forward for a preventative antibiotic treatment as a precautionary measure” amid an outbreak of meningitis in the area.

Anyone who visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury on 5, 6 and 7 March have been called upon to receive the treatment, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said on Monday.

Two people are known to have died of 13 cases confirmed in Kent since Friday, and advice has been issued to 16,000 staff and students at the University of Kent, the UKHSA said.

Trish Mannes, UK Health Security Agency 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 March 5 and 7 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.

“If you think you may have symptoms of meningitis, don’t hesitate to seek medical help by contacting your GP or calling NHS 111.”

The UKHSA said it acted as soon as it was notified of a cluster of cases.

A UKHSA spokesperson said: “UKHSA was notified of a cluster of cases late on Saturday. We acted immediately and communication to those at risk took place on Saturday evening and Sunday.”

Three schools have confirmed cases of meningitis 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, Kent, as “incredibly kind, thoughtful and intelligent”.

The other person who died attended the University of Kent.

It is understood that some of those in hospital have been put into induced comas.

“Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly. Signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia can include a fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting and cold hands and feet. Septicaemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass,” the agency said.

“Early symptoms can often be confused with other illnesses such as a cold, flu or hangover, and students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs. If you or anyone you know develops any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately by contacting a GP, calling NHS 111 or dialling 999 in an emergency. Knowing the signs and taking early treatment can be lifesaving.”