Calls are growing for all Sheffield students to be offered meningitis vaccinations, following a recent outbreak in Kent.

There have now been 18 confirmed cases of meningitis, with 11 more notifications under investigation.

Sadly, one university student and one sixth form student have both died from the illness.

If treatment is delayed, meningitis is a dangerous infection that can damage the nervous system, potentially becoming life threatening.

The disease can spread through close contact or saliva, making university environments a high risk setting.

One university of Sheffield student, Emilie Worsley, said: ”I do not feel entirely informed of the implications of the illness, which is making many students feel nervous about the situation.

”To make students feel less anxious, I think the university should make sure that everyone is informed on the risks and symptoms.”

To reduce the risk of the disease, some Sheffield students believe the meningitis B vaccine should be given to all students for free.

Miss Worsley said: ”I think the vaccines should be free for all students around the country and should also be encouraged to put people’s minds at ease.”

Most university students in the UK received the MenACWY vaccine at around 14 years old. However, the current outbreak of meningitis B means the current generation of students teenagers are not protected, as the MenB vaccination was only introduced in 2015.

It is possible to get a MenB jab privately but it can cost up to £220.

Another first year student at the University of Sheffield, Harvey Beaton, said: ”I know that the infection can be very risky and it’s awful knowing that people have died from it recently.

”The vaccination should be handed out because its important for prevention, especially for the average student lifestyle.”

However, some experts have raised concern over the cost and practicality of offering vaccines to all students with the health secretary confirming that it is not necessary.

For now health experts are saying to practice good hygiene and be aware of the symptoms which can include: a high temperature, being sick, a headache, a stiff neck, a dislike of bright lights and seizures. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/

While no changes to vaccination policies have been confirmed, universities continue to encourage awareness and information on how to stay safe from meningitis.