Testing follows MRSA-linked death

Dr Baker said the death of the man left the university in sorrow

Students who came into contact with a colleague who died from a rare illness are being tested at a university.

Kent's health projtection unit said the move was a precautionary measure affecting a small number of people.

The unit has reassured staff and students the form of MRSA that led to the death is rare, and the risk is low.

The University of Kent student who died had a Panton-Valentine Leucocidin (PVL) infection. Staff and students have been told to follow simple hygiene measures.

ADVICE ON HYGIENE MEASURES Maintain good hygiene such as hand-washing and bathing Regularly change bed linen, underwear and clothes Do not share personal items such as flannels and razors In public places use liquid soap and paper hand towels Do not share personal items such as towels and gym wear Ensure facilities are clean and well maintained Wash and disinfect cuts or minor wounds and cover Avoid touching other peoples bandages and wounds If an infection spreads or recurs seek medical attention

A letter and information leaflet has been sent to everybody at the university.

In the letter, the student's death is attributed to PVL-associated Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

S. aureus is a germ which lives harmlessly on the skin or in the back of the nose of one in three people that can sometimes cause infections if it enters the body, the leaflet says.

PVL is described as a toxin produced by some strains of S. aureus, including MRSA, that can lead to illnesses or more serious infection.

Dr Robin Baker, university spokesman, said the death of a young man was tragic.

He said: "The university is very deeply in sorrow for his family and friends.

"We are taking advice from the health protection agency and are supporting them in every way.

"Their recommendation to us is there is not any reason to be alarmed."