The Faculty of Public Health recognises that the severe outbreak of meningococcal disease in Kent is deeply concerning to local residents, students, parents, and the wider community.
We are particularly saddened by the news that two people are known to have died as a result of the infection.
As with any rapidly evolving public health threat there is a significant amount of work being undertaken by local and national colleagues to protect the health of those at risk.
Local public health teams are working alongside UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS colleagues to investigate the outbreak, identify close contacts, and provide precautionary antibiotics where appropriate.
Targeted vaccination is also being introduced for specific groups at higher risk as the situation continues to be assessed.
The UKHSA is advising anyone who visited Club Chemistry in Canterbury on 5 March, 6 March or 7 March to come forward for preventative antibiotic treatment as a precautionary measure.
Further information on the response is available via the UKHSA website.
