At least three students have died in the United Kingdom after an outbreak of a dangerous bacterial infection took center stage.
The matter was seen as alarming by the public health officials located there. The illness is said to be highly contagious and caused by a certain bacterium that's usually spread in respiratory droplets.
The core symptoms include a fever, vomiting, confusion, muscle and joint pain and stiffness, and pale skin with a rash that does not disappear when pressed.
Bacterial meningitis needs immediate treatment with antibiotics, but it's mostly preventable with vaccines; however, the protection does wane over time.
The disease spreads most easily in places where people who are not vaccinated against the disease gather in close contact. This includes schools or student housing.
At least 11 people were said to be seriously ill and hospitalized with the condition, and that is why health officials are rushing to curb the deadly outbreak by tracing and treating thousands of those who came into potential contact during spring break.