Inside Canterbury ghost town after meningitis outbreak kills 2 with 13 in hospital
A meningitis B outbreak at the University of Kent has left two dead and caused widespread panic among students, leading many to flee home.
A serious outbreak of meningitis B at the University of Kent has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and at least 13 more hospitalized. As a result, the campus has seen a dramatic decline in student attendance, turning it into what many describe as a 'ghost town.' Many students have opted to return home, fearing for their health amid this alarming public health crisis.
Parents have rushed to pick up their children from the university, creating emotional scenes as they reunited after this frightening experience. Various students have described their fright at the situation, with queues forming as they boarded buses to leave the area. Some of the departing students have expressed that the atmosphere on campus has become reminiscent of the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting the widespread anxiety related to the meningitis outbreak and its deadly consequences.
The university and health authorities are likely to face pressure not only to contain the outbreak but also to provide clear communication and support for the student body. With many students expressing fears for their wellbeing, it remains crucial for the institution to address mental health aspects and ensure that safety measures are in place to regain the trust of their community in the wake of this crisis.