You may be aware that a student at the college’s London Road campus was recently admitted to the hospital with suspected meningococcal disease.
Shrewsbury Colleges Group is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of one of our students over the weekend. The student, who was based at the college’s London Road Campus, had been admitted to the hospital with suspected meningococcal disease, which can cause both meningitis and septicaemia.
Our sincere condolences go to family and friends at this time.
We are in contact with friends of the student who has passed away and are providing support as appropriate to individual students. If any students or parents/carers are worried about friends or have concerns, please get in touch with the college safeguarding team or speak to tutors or teachers. Students can also call the Student Assistance Programme 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
The college is receiving advice and support from the West Midlands Health Protection Team at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). They have advised that no special measures are currently necessary for the college community.
All the close contacts for this case have been identified and treated. People who have not had prolonged, close contact (including members of the college community, friends, acquaintances, household visitors and so on) are not at any greater risk than the rest of the population and do not need antibiotics. Those who may have shared drinks, e-cigarettes or cigarettes with the case but have not had prolonged close contact also have no increased risks.
We have sent students and parents/carers an email with further details. We encourage all to check their emails.