A sharp rise in meningitis cases has been recorded in the United Kingdom, with authorities describing it as an “unprecedented” outbreak concentrated among student communities in the southeast of England, reports Agence France-Presse.

According to the UK Health Security Agency, as of March 17, the number of confirmed and suspected cases has reached 20, including nine laboratory-confirmed infections, while 11 cases remain under investigation.

The outbreak has been centered in Kent, where many cases are linked to University of Kent and student social networks. Two young people have died from the disease—a 21-year-old student and an 18-year-old school pupil. Several other patients have been hospitalized with severe symptoms typical of meningococcal infection, which affects the membranes of the brain and spinal cord and can rapidly become fatal.

Authorities say the spread is associated with close social contact typical of student life. Reported transmission factors include kissing, sharing drinks, and using e-cigarettes. Particular attention is being given to a nightclub in Canterbury, which is being considered as a possible site of mass exposure.

Of particular concern is that some confirmed cases involve group B meningococcal infection—a rarer and potentially more dangerous form of the disease. At the same time, specialists are investigating a case involving an infant, which preliminary data suggest is not linked to the main outbreak cluster.

Medical experts emphasize that meningitis most commonly affects children, teenagers, and young adults—groups that are highly socially active. Authorities warn that the situation remains dynamic, and the number of cases may continue to rise, as the incubation period of the disease can last up to two weeks.