Doctor checking teen's neck This article features advice from Dr Tom Nutt , of Meningitis Now, the NHS and the UK government . After an outbreak of meningitis claimed the lives of two students in Canterbury, experts are urging people to be aware of the symptoms and seek urgent help if they experience them. A further 11 people are hospitalised by the illness, the BBC reported , with most aged between 18 and 21 years old. Dr Tom Nutt, chief executive of the charity Meningitis Now , said they are “deeply saddened” to hear of the deaths. “Our heartfelt thoughts are with their families, friends and the entire university community at this incredibly difficult time,” he added. What is meningitis? Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It’s usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection (the former is less common, but more serious). The infection most commonly occurs in babies, young children, teens and young adults. Following the latest outbreak; parents, students and university staff are being urged to “remain vigilant” for the signs of meningitis, which can include: High fever Severe headache Vomiting Sensitivity to light Confusion Cold hands and feet Limb pain Stiff neck Drowsiness/unresponsiveness Seizures A rash that doesn’t fade under pressure (Source: Dr Nutt and the NHS) “Symptoms can appear suddenly and can easily be mistaken for flu, a heavy cold or even the after-effects of a night out, so it is vital that anyone who is concerned seeks urgent medical help immediately,” said Dr Nutt. What’s behind the outbreak? Cases of meningitis dropped sharply during the Covid-19 pandemic but have since increased – in 2024-25, cases were higher than they were the year previous, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Alongside this, infant and teenage vaccination rates have declined, leaving more people vulnerable. Three vaccines protect against the main causes of meningitis. The MenB vaccine is offered to infants at eight weeks, 16 weeks and one year of age, as part of routine NHS vaccinations. Babies are also given the pneumococcal vaccine at 16 weeks and one year. The MenACWY vaccine protects teenagers against four types of bacteria linked to meningitis and is usually given in school during Year 9 (when kids are aged 13-14). If you haven’t had it and are in higher education, speak to your GP about getting one (you remain eligible for the MenACWY jab until your 25th birthday). University students and young adults are among the groups at increased risk because meningitis bacteria “can spread more easily in settings where people live, study and socialise closely together”, Dr Nutt noted. Infections that cause meningitis can be spread through sneezing, coughing and kissing. How is meningitis treated? While viral meningitis typically improves on its own within seven to 10 days, the NHS notes bacterial meningitis usually needs to be treated in hospital with antibiotics (and possible fluids/oxygen) for at least a week. The UK Health Security Agency is currently identifying close contacts of those impacted by the outbreak and offering precautionary antibiotics where needed. Dr Nutt concluded: “If anyone is worried about symptoms, trust your instincts and seek urgent medical help. Acting quickly can save lives.” The government advises that anyone affected with meningococcal disease “will usually become seriously ill within a few hours”. You should contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice if you have any concerns about your own or someone else’s health. If symptoms are getting worse, seek medical help urgently at the closest emergency department or by dialling 999. Related... 15-Minute Blood Test Can Help Doctors Spot Sepsis In Kids 'More Than A Rash': The Meningitis And Sepsis Symptoms All Parents Should Know Sepsis Is A Silent Killer, These Are The Symptoms To Look Out For