The proprietor of a nightclub has provided an unfortunate update following a meningitis outbreak in the region that has resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals.
A worker at Club Chemistry in Canterbury has been hospitalized with confirmed meningitis, as disclosed by the club’s owner. Following an outbreak linked to the venue, numerous individuals are seeking medical attention.
Louise Jones-Roberts informed the BBC that the infected staff member is undergoing treatment and is awaiting further tests to assess their condition. Additionally, two other staff members are presently in the emergency room with suspected meningitis, awaiting test results.
Jones-Roberts has reached out to approximately 90 out of the club’s 95 staff members, all of whom have been advised to take antibiotics as a precautionary measure.
Over the course of March 5 to 7, more than 2,000 individuals visited the club and now require tracing and antibiotic treatment as a preventive measure. Jones-Roberts stated, “It is not a difficult decision to close – we are dealing with people’s lives.” The club will remain closed until further notice.
The meningitis outbreak occurs within a broader crisis in Kent. Three schools have reported cases, and two students have tragically passed away. One of the students, Juliette, a year 13 pupil at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham, was lauded by her headteacher as “incredibly kind, thoughtful, and intelligent.” The second fatality occurred at the University of Kent, where some students have been placed in induced comas.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has confirmed 13 cases reported since March 13, including the two fatalities. UKHSA has advised individuals who visited Club Chemistry during the specified weekend to seek antibiotics as a precaution. Guidance has also been issued to approximately 16,000 staff and students at the University of Kent.
Trish Mannes, UKHSA’s regional deputy director for the South East, expressed condolences to those affected and emphasized the importance of individuals who visited Club Chemistry between March 5 and 7 seeking preventive antibiotic treatment.
At the university campus, students lined up for antibiotics, some donning face masks, while staff distributed more medications. Among them were two teenage brothers whose friend is hospitalized with meningitis, while another individual from their social circle is in an induced coma.
Schools impacted include Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys and Norton Knatchbull School in Ashford, both confirming that year 13 students are undergoing hospital treatment. Headteachers and parents have been advised to adhere to UKHSA guidelines.
Rosie Duffield, Independent MP for Canterbury, stressed that close contact is required for meningitis transmission and urged concerned individuals to contact her office or their general practitioner.
A spokesperson from the University of Kent stated that the institution is following UKHSA recommendations, keeping students and staff informed, and reaching out to known contacts of any cases. The spokesperson acknowledged the distressing and concerning nature of the situation for many community members.
Antibiotics for individuals who frequented Club Chemistry can be obtained from Gate Clinic at Kent and Canterbury Hospital; Westgate Hall, Canterbury; the Carey Building, Thanet Hub in Margate Northwood Rd; and the Senate Building at the University of Kent.