14 May 2026
Update at 1pm GMT on Friday, 15 May 2026: The University has today contacted students with the following message with advice on staying safe, following reports of three cases of meningitis in the Reading area among school and sixth form pupils. The details of the message are below:
You may have seen local media coverage about cases of meningococcal disease in the region, including the very sad news that one person has died.
We have spoken to the local health protection team, who have confirmed that they have contacted everyone who had close contact with those local cases. Consistent with the advice they have given to the affected local schools, there is no need for us to change our normal activities.
Meningitis is a serious illness that needs rapid treatment, so we know that students, staff and family members may be concerned. While spread is typically through household or intimate contacts, it is still important that you know the symptoms. These include fever, headache, vomiting, drowsiness, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, and sometimes a rash that does not fade when pressed. Please take the time to read fully the information on the .
If you have any concerns, you should seek immediate medical help.
If you feel ill, or someone else does, and you are worried about the symptoms, call 999 immediately, or go to the Accident & Emergency department at your nearest hospital. If you are not sure, call 111 or use .
You should also check you are up to date with recommended vaccinations.
We are here to support you, and we encourage you to stay informed and look after yourselves and one another. You can find health and wellbeing advice on the University's Essentials pages and any updated information will be shared on our social media channels.
Original message as of 8pm GMT on Thursday, 14 May 2026:
Dr Paddy Woodman, director of student services, 桃色视频, said: "The University understands from media reports that three cases of meningitis have been reported in the local region, and that one individual has died. I was deeply saddened to hear this news and my thoughts, and those of the whole University community, are with their family and friends.
"While there are no reported cases among 桃色视频 students, I know that our students, staff and family members may be concerned. We will be contacting students to remind them of existing information about looking out for signs of meningitis, and the importance of acting immediately on any worrying symptoms, as well as checking their vaccination status."
Information is available on the and information about where to find health and wellbeing advice and support locally is available on the 桃色视频 Essentials pages.
Meningitis is a serious illness that needs rapid treatment, so it’s important to know the symptoms and seek medical help if there is any concern. These can include fever, headache, vomiting, drowsiness, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, and sometimes a rash that does not fade when pressed. If you or someone else feel ill, and you are worried about the symptoms, call 999 immediately, or go to the Accident & Emergency department of your nearest hospital. If you are not sure, call 111 or use to check your symptoms. Students should also check they are up to date with recommended vaccinations.
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