Baby Battles Deadly Meningitis Outbreak in Kent
Nine-month-old Nala-Rose Fletcher from Folkestone is fighting for her life in intensive care at Evelina London Children’s Hospital. She fell seriously ill on March 4, right before a spike in meningitis cases hit Canterbury.
Her parents, Danielle Trott and Nick Fletcher, revealed their daughter has the same strain as the local outbreak.
“Nothing can truly prepare you for the pain and fear that comes with what we’ve been living through,” they said. “There have been moments that have felt utterly overwhelming, and at times desperately lonely. But you – all of you – have blown us away completely.”
Nala-Rose is believed to be the youngest victim of the current meningitis outbreak.
Going Through Hell – And Counting on Support
The desperate family set up a JustGiving page, which has raised over £5,400 towards their £20,000 goal.
“Nala-Rose is still very poorly and remains in intensive care,” said her parents. “We already know she will be left with lasting difficulties for the rest of her life, and that’s something we’re only beginning to come to terms with.
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“What your support does, more than anything, is remind us that we are not facing this alone. And right now, that means everything. Thank you, all of you, from the very bottom of our hearts.”
Outbreak Grim Toll and Rising Cases
- The meningitis outbreak has already claimed two lives – a sixth-form pupil named Juliette and a 21-year-old University of Kent student.
- Kent health officials are now investigating 20 suspected cases, with nine confirmed by lab tests.
- Six of these are the dangerous meningitis B strain.
A UKHSA statement confirmed, “All those affected who are currently linked to the outbreak are young adults. UKHSA is aware of a baby with confirmed meningococcal group B infection who is not currently linked to the outbreak but will continue to investigate this case.”
Urgent Action Underway
GPs nationwide have been ordered to prescribe antibiotics to anyone who visited Canterbury’s Club Chemistry between March 5-7, as well as all University of Kent students. This aims to curb the infection spreading beyond the area.
The UK Health Security Agency said:
“This is a rapidly evolving situation and there may be further cases as those with symptoms are encouraged to seek medical advice. Antibiotics remain the most effective treatment to limit the spread of invasive meningococcal disease.”
“So far, over 2,500 doses have been given to students, close contacts, and others, including some attendees of Club Chemistry. GPs across the country will today be advised to prescribe antibiotics to anyone who visited the club and to University of Kent students who are asked to seek preventative treatment. This is to ensure those who have travelled away from Kent can access treatment close to home.”
This outbreak is a stark warning to all young people in the area. If you’ve been at the club or are a University of Kent student, get medical advice immediately.
