Meningitis symptoms: What to look out for as two die in University of Kent outbreak

Two people have died following an outbreak of “invasive” meningitis at the University of Kent.

At least 13 cases of meningitis have been reported by the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) between 13 and 15 March.

The specific strain of meningitis has not yet been identified. Health officials are arranging antibiotics for students in the Canterbury area as a precautionary measure.

People are being advised to be vigilant for symptoms amid a warning that university students are particularly susceptible to the deadly infection.

Here are the symptoms of meningitis and what to do if you suspect you have the infection, according to the NHS.

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord.

It can affect anyone but is more common in babies, children, teenagers and young adults.

What are the symptoms of meningitis?

Symptoms include a high temperature, headache, vomiting and a stiff neck.

People may also become sensitive to bright lights, feel very sleepy or confused or have fits.

What causes meningitis?

It is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection.

Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis.

How does meningitis spread?

Infections that cause meningitis can be spread through coughing, sneezing or kissing.

It is usually caught from those who carry the viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat, or from someone with meningitis, though this is less common.

How serious is meningitis?

If it is not treated quickly, it can lead to sepsis, brain or nerve damage, hearing loss or even death.

Some with bacterial meningitis can be left with hearing or vision loss, problems with memory, fits or loss of limbs, even after being treated.

Can meningitis be treated?

Those with viral meningitis will usually get better on their own.

Most people with bacterial meningitis who are treated quickly will also make a full recovery. However, it usually needs to be treated in hospital for at least a week.

Treatments include antibiotics and fluids given directly into a vein or oxygen through a face mask.

What is the fatality rate for meningitis?

The NHS estimates that up to one in every 10 cases of bacterial meningitis is fatal.

Are there vaccines for meningitis?

There are the MenB, 6-in-1, pneumococcal and MMRV vaccines for babies and children, while the MenACWY jabs are offered to teenagers, sixth-form students and new university students.

What should you do if you think you have meningitis?

The NHS recommends that people call 999 for an ambulance or go to their nearest A&E.

People are advised to trust their instincts, as someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.