What North East universities are saying about meningitis

Students in university halls in Kent are to be offered the meningitis B vaccine, Wes Streeting has said, after a Year 13 pupil in Faversham named locally as Juliette Kenny and a student at the University of Kent have died in the outbreak, with others treated in hospital and some people were put in an induced coma.

The Northern Echo understands that Durham University has sent advice to students about symptoms.

Amanda Healy, chair of the Association of Directors of Public Health North East, said: “There are no reported cases of meningitis within the North East at present.

(Image: Durham University)

"In the region, vaccine coverage for babies at one-year-old in 2024/25 was 95.1 per cent, higher than the national average of 91 per cent.

"Vaccine coverage for those aged 65 years and over in the North East was also above the national average of 73.6 per cent at 76 per cent. Meanwhile, vaccine coverage for MenACWY, the main vaccine against meningitis, was 68.2 per cent in 14 to 15-year-olds.

“Work is taking place, as ever, across the North East to promote vaccine uptake while local authorities and UKSHA monitor the situation.

"Communications have also been issued to universities and schools to reinforce the importance of staying up to date with vaccines.”

Here is what other universities have said about the outbreak:

Teesside University

A Teesside Unviersity spokesperson said: "We would like to offer our heartfelt sympathy to all those who have been affected by the tragic events in Canterbury this week.

Teesside University.

"The safety and wellbeing of students and staff is our highest priority.

"All our students are provided with information about how to prevent the spread and transmission of meningitis during induction and we have enhanced additional support at key locations throughout campus.

"Following this week’s events, we have also contacted our students directly reminding them of what symptoms to be aware of and how best to protect themselves."

Northumbria University

A Northumbria University spokesperson said: "The health and wellbeing of our students is always our priority.

"We provide information and guidance that supports student health and wellbeing all year round, including specific advice on how to prevent, identify and respond to potential cases of meningitis.

"We also work closely with our national and regional partners to raise awareness during times of increased activity, and to ensure our students and the wider community remain safe.

“Following the news of the cases in the South East we have encouraged all students to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of meningitis and to seek medical advice promptly if they have any concerns.

"Students can access support and guidance through their Student Portal, or by contacting their GP.

“For the most up-to-date public health guidance, we would direct students to the NHS website and the UK Health Security Agency."

Newcastle University

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

A Newcastle University spokesperson said: “We understand that the tragic deaths in Kent will cause concern within our University community, and while we have no reported cases, we have issued a message to students with further information and guidance, alongside our regular reminders to stay vigilant for meningitis and septicaemia symptoms.

“We want to reassure everyone that the risk remains low, but it is important to stay informed.

"We encourage students and staff to familiarise themselves with the signs of this illness and to use the resources on our Wellbeing website, including a short video and details of where to find support."