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Meningitis
There is a disease that every student should know about. Meningitis.
In the early stages, its signs and symptoms can resemble those of flu or a bad hangover but its effects can be life-threatening and, in seven to 10 per cent of cases, fatal. Knowledge, vigilance and quick medical assistance are the best weapons.
Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. The most common germs that cause meningitis are viruses and bacteria.
Viral meningitis is rarely life-threatening but it can make people very unwell. Most people who get viral meningitis recover after a few weeks without any specific treatment.
Bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening and needs urgent medical attention. Most people who suffer from bacterial meningitis will recover, but some unfortunately will die.
The meningococcus is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the UK and causes most public concern. The bacteria live in the back of the throat of about 25% of teenagers and young adults but only rarely will they overcome the immune system, resulting in meningococcal meningitis.
Meningococcal bacteria can be passed from person to person through prolonged close contact and by coughing, sneezing and kissing.
Although vaccines are available for some types of meningitis, they are not available for all types, which is why people need to know the signs and symptoms and act fast if they suspect meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis can cause severe after-effects such as deafness, brain damage, impaired eyesight and, where meningococcal septicaemia has occurred, possible loss of limbs.
The ‘hidden’ after-effects of the disease include depression, attention deficit disorder, recurring headache, personality change, temper tantrums, and bouts of aggression.
Signs and symptoms
The following symptoms are common in children and adults:
These symptoms are for Children and adults:- Fever - cold hands and feet
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Dislike of bright lights
- Joint/muscle pain
- Drowsy, difficult to wake
- Confusion
The rash
One sign of meningococcal septicaemia is a rash that does not fade under pressure. You can test this by pressing a glass against the skin. If the rash does not disappear under the pressure of the glass go to hospital immediately. A rash may be more difficult to see on darker skin. Check on lighter areas or under the eyelids.
Act quickly!
Some or all of these symptoms, including the rash, may appear or none may appear at all. If you are unsure, do not hesitate in seeking immediate medical help. The illness may progress quickly, sometimes in a matter of hours. If someone is ill or obviously getting worse, do not wait for any symptoms to appear: seek medical help immediately.
How can I protect myself and others- If you have not had the meningitis C vaccine, please arrange to see your GP as soon as possible. If you have not yet registered with a GP please do so. A list of doctors is available from the Students' Union - list of GP's - opens in a new window.
- Look out for others, especially if you live in halls. If you think someone is ill and needs help, get medical assistance immediately.
Source: Meningitis Trust
During office hours (9am-5pm) the University’s Occupational Health Adviser Vicky Ubhi can be contacted on 01902 321352. Click here to send an email to Vicky.
Further information is available from:
NHS Direct - Meningitis Advice
Tel: 0845 46 47
Website: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
Meningitis Trust
Tel: 0800 028 18 28 (24 hr helpline - calls charged at local rates )
Website: www.meningitis-trust.org
The Meningitis Research Foundation
Tel: 080 8800 3344 (24 hr helpline - freephone)
Website: www.meningitis.org
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