Two Dead After Meningitis Outbreak at University of Kent
Written by James Nicod on 16th March 2026
Two students have been confirmed dead after a meningitis outbreak at the University of Kent, with 11 more showcasing symptoms of the disease.
The UK Health Security Agency has contacted more than 30,000 students, their families and staff at the University, advising them to get antibiotics “without delay”.
Students queuing for antibiotics outside the University of Kent, PA Images / Alamy
Trish Mannes of the UKHSA said in a statement: “Students and staff will understandably be feeling worried about the risk of further cases; however, we would like to reassure them that close contacts of cases have been given antibiotics as a precautionary measure.
“Students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs of meningitis because they can be easily confused with other illnesses such as a bad cold, flu or even a hangover.
“That’s why it’s vital that, if a friend goes to bed unwell, you check on them regularly and don’t hesitate to seek medical help by contacting their GP or calling NHS 111.”
Hundreds of students have been seen lining up outside the University to receive medicine. Although the antibiotics are precautionary, students have told Sky News that they’re “not taking any chances.”
The outbreak is reported to have impacted the nightclub Club Chemistry in Canterbury, after several people attending a birthday party fell ill and were rushed to hospital.
The UKHSA has contacted the club, and it will subsequently remain closed until further notice.
Club Chemistry has put out a statement on Facebook in the wake of the outbreak, saying: “Some people who may have attended Club Chemistry could have been affected by the current outbreak
“We are awaiting further information from the UK Health Security Agency, which we will share with you as soon as we have it. Please look out for each other. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this.”
Meningitis requires prolonged close contact to spread, meaning an environment like a nightclub could be a breeding ground for the disease.
No new cases of meningitis have been reported.
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