Issued by the University and Avon Health Protection Unit

Four cases of bacterial meningitis occurred at the University of Bristol between October 21 and 27.

The cases that arose on October 17 and 21 are first-year students and both have been discharged from hospital.  The case that arose on October 26 is also a first-year student and is recovering in hospital. The case that arose on October 27 is a second-year student and has been discharged.

Life at the University is continuing as normal.  The University and Avon Health Protection Unit (AHPU) have responded vigorously to the situation. 

Antibiotics have been administered to particular target groups, including close contacts of the infected students and over 3,000 other people.  This was a precautionary measure aimed at halting the spread of the disease.  In addition, the entire University community has been provided via email, the web and printed material with comprehensive information about the symptoms and how to respond to them.   

A telephone advice line staffed by trained volunteers was established at the University to supplement the information and advice services of the AHPU, the Students’ Health Service and the national meningitis charities.

A spokesperson for the University said: “This is a worrying time, but everyone has pulled together to address the clinical and communications issues as energetically and effectively as we can.  We are all rooting for the students who have been affected and hoping for a quick end to this menace.”

Dr Joyshri Sarangi, local Communicable Disease Consultant, said: “We have taken the necessary public health measures to protect the University community.”

A Q&A developed by AHPU and the University, together with links to information provided by the national meningitis charities, is available from www.bris.ac.uk/university/meningitis-faq.html