What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges - the lining surrounding the brain. It can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Viral meningitis is rarely life threatening but can make you feel very weak. Bacterial meningitis is less common and very serious. It needs urgent treatment with antibiotics.
The meningitis bacteria has three main groups, A, B, C. Group A rarely causes disease in the UK. Group B accounts for 60-70% and Group C for 30-40%.
What is septicaemia?
Septicaemia is the blood poisoning form of meningitis caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream.
How serious are meningitis and septicaemia?
Meningitis and septicaemia are rare but extremely dangerous and can result in deafness, blindness, loss of limbs, even death. But, if you spot the symptoms early and get treatment quickly, you can fully recover.
How do they spread?
The bacteria are common and live naturally in the back of the nose and throat. They normally spread between people in close contact by coughing, sneezing and kissing. The bacteria don’t live long outside the body so can’t be caught from water supplies, swimming pools or buildings.
People any age can carry the bacteria for days, weeks or months without becoming ill, in fact, carrying it can help make you more immune to meningitis. But occasionally they overcome the body's defences and cause meningitis and septicaemia.
Protect yourself
Anyone can get meningitis but those most at risk are children under five, teenagers and young adults, and older people. Students are at risk because of the closeness of student accommodation. Close contact allows the bacteria to spread.
The Meningitis C vaccine is now offered to 20 to 24-year-olds. It is important all first year students are immunised. Arrange to get the vaccine at your GP surgery before you arrive at university. You may need to give your GP a week's notice to order the vaccine. If you have any problems let Student Support know as soon as possible on 01642 342277.
Stay alert for the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia - they are on posters around the university. Prompt action can mean the difference between life and death. Someone with meningitis can deteriorate in a matter of hours. The quicker you get help the better. Keep an eye on friends, ask them how they’re feeling, you may save their life. There is no vaccine against Group B meningococcal disease.