University response to the meningitis cases in Canterbury

Katherine Moss
Overhead view of campus

The following is the latest statement from the University of Kent (updated at 1:15pm on 18 March) regarding the response to cases of meningitis in Canterbury.

‘Today, the University – in partnership with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) – are rolling out the first targeted Meningitis B vaccination programme to all students living on our Canterbury campus. Alongside this, we will continue to offer precautionary antibiotics to staff and students that may be affected.
This is part of our ongoing commitment to offer a swift response and reassurance to support Kent students at this difficult time.’

Former statement shared on 16 March

‘We recognise that this is a very sad and worrying time for our community and we are doing everything we can to offer advice and support.   

This is a regional public health matter and not specific to the University. The response is being led by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and we are working with them and partners as the situation unfolds.   

Known contacts of existing cases in our community have been contacted and advised on next steps.  Students impacted are being offered antibiotic treatment on our Canterbury campus.     

We have contacted all our students and staff to ensure they have all the latest advice and support they need, and we will continue to update via email and social media.  

As a further precautionary measure there will be no in person assessments or exams this week – students have been contacted directly with details on alternative arrangements.    

We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.’

 

More information and guidance from the UKHSA is available here.