Health Officials Monitor Brighton Meningitis Cases as Students Recover

Health officials say they are closely monitoring the situation after two students at the University of Brighton were taken to hospital with meningitis.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed both students are recovering, and that anyone who had close contact with them has been offered treatment as a precaution.

No further cases have been identified, with the most recent confirmed case reported on 24 October.

People are being reminded to stay alert for symptoms of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia, which can include:

• Fever

• Headache

• Rapid breathing

• Drowsiness

• Shivering

• Vomiting

• Cold hands and feet

A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed against a glass is also a possible warning sign of septicaemia.

Charlotte Flynn, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South East, said students are particularly at risk of missing early symptoms, which can easily be mistaken for a cold, flu, or hangover.

“That’s why it’s vital that if a friend goes to bed unwell, you check on them regularly. This could save their life,” she said.

The UKHSA is urging anyone with symptoms to contact their GP or call NHS 111 immediately for advice.

A spokesperson for the University of Brighton said the institution has “gone above and beyond” in sharing guidance and information with students.

They added that meningococcal bacteria don’t spread easily, and only those with prolonged, close contact are at slightly increased risk.

The University of Sussex confirmed it has had no reported cases, but said it is taking precautionary measures to raise awareness among its students.