Two people have died and 13 have been infected following a meningitis outbreak in Canterbury, Kent.

UKHSA investigations have confirmed some of the cases visited the Club Chemistry nightclub in Canterbury between 5 and 7 March before becoming unwell.

The executive agency said it was working with the nightclub and partners, including the University of Kent, to limit the spread. One of the people who have sadly died was a student at the university.

Preventative antibiotics are being provided at sites around Canterbury as a precautionary measure for anyone who visited Club Chemistry between 5 and 7 March.

UKHSA has denied there was a delay in the response to the emergency.

Advice has been issued to 16,000 staff and students at the University of Kent, where antibiotics are also being offered to those who need them.

Trish Mannes, UKHSA regional deputy director for the South East, said: ‘Our thoughts remain with the friends and family involved and we understand that many people in the university and wider community will be affected by this sad news.'

An East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust spokesperson said: ‘We recognise the tragic circumstances of the current meningitis outbreak in Canterbury. 

‘We are working with the UK Health Security Agency and NHS Kent and Medway to ensure hospital staff and GPs are aware and to be vigilant for possible cases in any patients.'