Main roads
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Two young men died of meningitis in England
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At least 11 other cases have been confirmed
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Authorities have not confirmed which strain caused the current outbreak
WEDNESDAY, March 18, 2026 (NewsDay News) – Health officials are investigating an outbreak of meningitis in southern England that has killed two young people and sickened at least 11 others.
The UK Health Safety Agency (UKHSA) said many of the cases were linked to students in the city of Canterbury, about 60 miles south-east of London.
One of the dead was a pupil at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School in Faversham. Another was a student at the University of Kent.
“We are all totally devastated” Amelia McIlroythe director of the gymnasium said CNN.
The University of Kent said it was “deeply saddened” by the death of one of its students.
Health officials are now working with the university to identify close contacts of those affected. Antibiotics are given to prevent further spread of the disease.
Invasive meningococcal disease is caused by bacteria that can lead to meningitis, an infection of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, or septicemia, a serious infection of the blood.
If not treated immediately, the disease can be life-threatening.
“Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly” Trish Mannesthe deputy regional director of UKHSA said.
“It is important that students and staff be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicemia, which can include fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, tremors, vomiting and cold hands and feet,” he said.
In addition, he said, “septicemia can also cause a characteristic rash that does not fade when the bottle is pressed.”
Experts say that it is difficult to detect meningitis in its early stages.
“Students are especially at risk of missing the early warning signs of meningitis because they can easily be confused with other illnesses, such as a bad cold, the flu, or even a hangover,” Mannes said.
This can delay treatment, which can be dangerous.
“Early treatment is important” Dr. Paul Huntersaid the professor of medicine at the University of East Anglia CNN. “Early symptoms can be very mild, but then deterioration can be very rapid, leading to death within hours.”
Meningococcal bacteria can spread through close contact, such as coughing, kissing or sharing drinks. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says.
“University students and young adults are among the groups most at risk because meningitis bacteria can easily spread in places where people live, study and socialize.” Dr. Tom Nuttchief executive of the charity Meningitis Now, said.
Since 2015, only infants in the UK regularly receive the MenB vaccine, which protects against one of the most common strains affecting teenagers and adults.
“We believe that all adolescents and adults should be protected by this vaccine,” Nutt said.
In the US, CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for all infants and young children, as well as others at high risk.
Authorities have not confirmed which strain caused the current outbreak.
More information
The World Health Organization has more information on this meningitis.
SOURCE: CNNMarch 16, 2026
What does this mean for you?
People with symptoms of fever, confusion, vomiting, or rash that do not go away should seek medical attention immediately.
