Meningitis outbreak in Reading

A deadly meningitis outbreak has claimed the life of a student at Henley College in Reading, prompting an urgent public health response.

Two other individuals are currently receiving hospital treatment as health officials work to contain the spread of the bacterial infection.

The UK Health Security Agency has begun administering preventative antibiotics to close contacts and is urging parents to be vigilant for early symptoms.

This incident has reignited calls for a catch-up vaccination program for teenagers who may have missed essential jabs during the pandemic.