Juliette Kenny’s father has shared the harrowing experience his daughter endured in the moments leading up to her tragic death during the initial stages of the meningitis outbreak in Kent.

Juliette, an 18-year-old student at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School in Faversham, succumbed to meningitis B just under 24 hours after contracting the infection. She is one of the two fatalities, alongside an unnamed 21-year-old student, linked to the bacterial outbreak.

With the number of cases nearing 30, Juliette’s family has disclosed the final moments of their beloved daughter, with her father emphasizing her courage throughout the ordeal.

Michael Kenny recounted that they first noticed something was amiss when Juliette began vomiting and exhibited discoloration on her cheeks. Despite being fit and healthy with no other symptoms, they promptly sought medical assistance, resulting in her receiving antibiotics and being transported to the hospital.

Describing her valiant fight against the illness, Mr. Kenny expressed gratitude towards the NHS staff for their efforts but lamented that meningitis claimed her life within hours. He shared that they were by her side as she passed, surrounded by the voices of loved ones expressing their adoration for her.

The grieving father praised Juliette as a vibrant presence in the world, acknowledging the profound impact of her loss on the family. He highlighted her positive energy and ability to spread joy, emphasizing the irreplaceable void left by her absence.

In light of the escalating outbreak, Juliette’s family has urged the government to expand the UK’s vaccination program. As the region intensifies its efforts, NHS Kent and Medway have administered thousands of doses and antibiotics to combat the spread of the bacteria. Additional vaccine doses have been secured to mitigate the ongoing crisis.