A surge in invasive meningococcal disease cases has claimed two young lives in Southern England, with authorities confirming 11 additional cases. The outbreak centers around student communities in Canterbury, Kent, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The first fatality was an 18-year-old girl from Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School in Faversham. "We are all absolutely devastated," headteacher Amelia McIlroy said in a statement shared with CNN on March 16.
The University of Kent also reported losing one of its students to the outbreak. In an online statement, the institution conveyed its profound sorrow over the loss. The UKHSA said is now working with the university to identify close contacts, distribute antibiotics, and advise staff and students to contain the outbreak.
Invasive meningococcal disease is caused by meningococcal bacteria and can trigger two serious conditions: meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and septicemia, a potentially fatal form of blood poisoning.
Cases have been rising in recent years, raising public health concerns particularly amongst young adults. If not treated quickly, the disease carries significant risk of severe complications or death.
Check out this gallery to learn more about this serious disease.