We’re saddened to learn of a student death from meningococcal type B (MenB) at Bath Spa University
The final year Business Management student has not yet been named. We’ve extended our sincere condolences to the individual’s family and friends and are working with Public Health England and the university authorities to support those affected.
Dr Tom Nutt, our Chief Executive, said, “It is very sad to hear of another young life being lost to meningitis."
“We understand that people connected with the university will be concerned but we urge them not to panic – meningitis remains a relatively rare disease and everything that needs doing is being done."
Learn the signs and symptoms
“With the strain being identified as MenB, which young people are not routinely vaccinated against, we would urge students to take a few minutes to learn the signs and symptoms of meningitis and to act quickly if they suspect it.”
The university has signed up to our Meningitis Aware Recognition Mark (MARM) and will have protocols in place for dealing with such a case. MARM-registered universities pledge to raise awareness of meningitis among students and staff and promote vaccine uptake. Read more about MARM here.
In the UK, every university could experience at least one case of meningitis or meningococcal disease (meningitis and septicaemia) among its students within the first term. We’ve been campaigning to raise awareness of the disease and increase take up of the MenACWY vaccination, available free to students under the age of 25.
Contact our Helpline
Anyone affected or with any questions and concerns can contact our Helpline on 0808 80 10 388 or email helpline@meningitisnow.org.
"The early signs and symptoms of meningitis can be similar to flu and include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and muscle pain," added Tom.
"More specific signs and symptoms include fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and a rash which doesn’t fade under pressure."
"The rash can be a late sign and may not appear so our advice is not to wait for a rash."
Tom added, “Trust your instincts and seek urgent medical help if you suspect the disease, by contacting your GP or calling 111.”
