One dead after UK infection outbreak: All we know so far

Yesterday (Thursday, May 15), it was confirmed that a trio of meningococcal infection (meningitis) cases have been discovered in young people in Reading this week.

This was according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), which added that one of the three has since died from the infection, who had been studying at Oxfordshire’s Henley College.

A statement said: “Sadly, one of the individuals has died and our thoughts and condolences are with their friends and family.”

The other two cases currently remain in the hospital, receiving treatment at this time.

Here is everything we know about the situation so far:

Oxfordshire college student dead

As mentioned, the outbreak has seen three young people contract meningitis, with one of these cases turning fatal.

Henley College has since confirmed that one of its students died earlier this week following the UKHSA statement.

A spokesperson for the local educational institution said: “Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with the student’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time.

“We are supporting those affected within our college community and are following the advice and guidance given by the UK Health Security Agency.

“Out of respect for the family, we will not be providing further details at this time.”

The statement was issued in response to questions about the meningitis reports, but did not expressly confirm the cause of the student’s death.

READ MORE: Young person dies after meningitis outbreak as two being treated

Henley College. (Image: Google Maps)

What is being done about the outbreak?

People who have come into close contact with the three meningitis cases are being offered antibiotics “as a precaution”, and information about meningitis symptoms has been passed to students and parents at “all affected schools”.

UKHSA said young people should check that they are up to date with their vaccinations.

The agency said its specialists are working closely with the local authority and NHS partners in Reading following the discovery of the three cases.

What are the symptoms of meningitis?

Early symptoms of meningitis, such as vomiting, fever, aches, muscle pain, cold hands and feet and headaches, can look similar to common illnesses like colds or flu.

The key difference is that someone with meningitis or septicaemia will usually become seriously ill in a matter of hours.

Early recognition of meningitis and sepsis symptoms can greatly improve the outcome of the disease, and so anyone concerned about any of these symptoms, at any time, should contact their GP, call NHS 111 or 999 in an emergency.

Symptoms can appear in any order, and some may not happen at all. For meningitis, common signs and symptoms include a fever, stiff neck, rash, vomiting, confusion and delirium.

Also mentioned is a dislike of bright lights, fits, severe sleepiness, losing consciousness, and a very bad headache, but the latter alone is not a reason to get medical help.

READ MORE: New statement after Oxfordshire student dies from meningitis outbreak

Symptoms of meningitis (stock photo). (Image: PA)

How high is the threat level?

UKHSA said the risk to the wider public “remains low” and added that one of the cases has been confirmed as Meningitis B, while test results for the other cases have not yet come through.

Dr Rachel Mearkle, consultant in health protection, said: “We understand that many people will be affected by this sad news and would like to offer our condolences to the friends and family of this student. 

“Students and staff will naturally be feeling worried about the likelihood of further cases.

“Meningococcal meningitis requires very close contact to spread, and large outbreaks, as we saw in Kent recently, are thankfully rare.

“We are working closely with partners and have provided public health advice and precautionary antibiotic treatment to close contacts of the cases.

“Meningococcal disease does not spread easily, and the risk to the wider public remains low. 

“Anyone can get meningitis, and around 300 to 400 cases of meningococcal disease are diagnosed in England every year.

“It’s most common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults. It needs to be treated quickly, so it is important to know the signs and symptoms.

“They can appear in any order and may not all be present, so seek rapid medical attention if there is ever any concern.”

What has the council said?

Matthew Pearce, Director of Public Health at Reading Borough Council, said: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of the young person who has sadly died, and with the other two young people who are currently receiving treatment.”

He said the council is “working closely” with UKHSA and NHS partners in the wake of “these three cases of meningitis B infection”.

Mr Pearce continued: “It is completely understandable that parents, young people and the community may be feeling anxious at this time.

“We want to reassure residents that the risk to the wider public remains low. Meningitis B does not spread easily.

“Parents, carers and young people who want to know more can visit the NHS website at www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis.

“It is important to recognise the signs and symptoms of meningitis, which can appear in any order and may not all be present.

“Someone with meningitis or sepsis can become seriously unwell very quickly.

“Residents should call 999 or go to their nearest A&E immediately if they suspect they or someone they care for has meningitis or sepsis.

“If they are unsure, residents can seek advice through NHS 111 online or by calling NHS 111.”

READ MORE: Three meningitis cases in the area, death reported at college – live updates

One person has died while two others are in hospital (stock photo).

Oxfordshire reaction

Henley MP Freddie van Mierlo said on Friday morning: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the students affected.

“I’m also urging everyone in the area to re-familiarise themselves with the symptoms and signs of meningitis.”

Nearby Wheatley Pharmacy added: “Due to increased local interest around Meningitis B vaccination, we currently have Meningitis B vaccine in stock at Wheatley Pharmacy.”