LONDON

Meningitis cases linked to an outbreak in south-east England have risen to 27, according to the UK Health Security Agency on Thursday.

The number of cases stood at 20 on Tuesday, but increased to 27 on Wednesday. Of these, 15 are laboratory confirmed, while 12 remain under investigation.

Health officials have warned that the number of Meningitis cases is likely to rise further.

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The illness can become life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Symptoms can include fever, headache, rapid breathing, drowsiness, shivering, vomiting, a characteristic rash, and cold hands and feet.

Professor Robin May, chief scientific officer of the UK Health Security Agency, said: "In outbreaks like this, you would typically expect a small increase in numbers still to go, so I suspect that number will go up slightly."

Speaking to BBC Breakfast, he described the outbreak, which has been linked to a nightclub in the city of Canterbury, as "very unusual."

Cases have been confirmed across two universities and four schools in Kent, a county in south-east England, as well as a higher education institution in the capital, London. The outbreak is thought to have originated at the Canterbury nightclub.

Doctors across England have been advised to remain alert for symptoms of meningitis as health authorities monitor the situation.

A targeted vaccination program is now underway, with the Meningitis B jab being offered to 5,000 students at the University of Kent.

Two people have died in connection with the outbreak: a 21-year-old university student and a sixth-form pupil.