Another educational institution has reported a student with a suspected case of meningitis, unrelated to the recent outbreak in Kent. St John Rigby College, located in Orrell, has informed parents and caregivers about a student with a ‘suspected meningococcal case.’

This development follows a lethal outbreak that originated at the University of Kent, as reported to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on March 13, resulting in the loss of two young individuals. Reports indicate a decrease in confirmed cases in Kent from 23 to 20, with the number of suspected cases under investigation declining from 11 to nine.

In a communication sent out on Friday evening, St John Rigby College in Orrell, Wigan, disclosed the presence of a suspected meningococcal case among its student body. The college stated that health authorities have conducted contact tracing and assured that there is no known connection to the situation in Kent.

According to the college, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) notified them about the suspected case and emphasized that only one case has been identified within the institution. Health officials have identified and contacted all close contacts of the affected individual, offering antibiotics as a precautionary measure.

The college reassured families that the risk to students is minimal, and there is no need for individuals to avoid attending classes or engaging in regular activities. Meanwhile, in Kent, students were seen lining up to receive vaccines and antibiotics at the University of Kent campus as part of the ongoing vaccination campaign.

As the vaccination campaign progresses, the number of meningitis cases related to the Kent outbreak has decreased from 23 to 20, according to the UK Health Security Agency. Health Secretary Wes Streeting commended the efforts of frontline responders and healthcare workers in managing the outbreak and ensuring the well-being of those affected.