Meningitis; Signs and Symptoms

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges). It can affect anyone, but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. Meningitis can be very serious if not treated quickly. It can cause life-threatening blood poisoning (sepsis) and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves.



Meningitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis.

Infections that cause meningitis can be spread through:

• sneezing
• coughing
• kissing

Meningitis is usually caught from people who carry these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat but are not ill themselves. It can also be caught from someone with meningitis, but this is less common.



Symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include:

• a high temperature (fever)
• being sick
• a headache
• a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it (but a rash will not always develop)
• a stiff neck
• a dislike of bright lights
• drowsiness or unresponsiveness
• seizures (fits)

These symptoms can appear in any order. You do not always get all the symptoms.



Treatment 

If you believe that you have contracted meningitis call Security Services on 0114 222 4444. Please stay in your room away from your flatmates. 

People with suspected meningitis will usually have tests in hospital to confirm the diagnosis and check whether the condition is the result of a viral or bacterial infection.

1) Bacterial meningitis usually needs to be treated in hospital for at least a week.

Treatments include:

• antibiotics given directly into a vein
• fluids given directly into a vein
• oxygen through a face mask

2) Viral meningitis tends to get better on its own within 7 to 10 days and can often be treated at home

Getting plenty of rest and taking painkillers and anti-sickness medication can help relieve the symptoms in the meantime.



Vaccination against Meningitis;

MenACWY vaccine – offered to teenagers, sixth formers and students going to university for the first time

Find out more here