Third school confirms meningitis diagnosis as student hospitalised amid outbreak

The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

• A third school in Kent has confirmed a student diagnosis of meningitis, adding to growing concerns in the region.
• The BBC report Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys announced that a year 13 student has been admitted to hospital with the illness.
• The headmaster conveyed his concern in a letter to parents, stating: "Our thoughts are with him and his family during this difficult time, and we hope for a speedy recovery."
• Despite describing the situation as "worrying," he confirmed the school would remain open on Tuesday, citing a "low" risk to other pupils.
• This latest confirmation means Simon Langton Grammar School joins Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar Faversham and Norton Knatchbull School in Ashford as reporting meningitis cases. The development follows the University of Kent's announcement on Sunday of a student death from the illness.