Meningitis is a serious disease in which there is inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. There are many different causes of meningitis, but the two most common organisms are viruses and bacteria.
Teenagers and young people are a high-risk group for meningitis and are more likely to carry meningitis-causing bacteria in the back of their throats. Early symptoms of meningoccal disease include:
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Muscle pain
- Fever
- Cold hands and feet
- Pale blotchy skin, spots or a rash that does not fade under pressure
If you have identified these symptoms and someone’s general health is deteriorating, you need to act quickly and seek medical help immediately. Visit Meningitis Now for more information and advice.
All first-time university students up to the age of 25 are offered the Men ACWY vaccine as part of the NHS vaccination programme. The Men ACWY vaccine protects against four different causes of meningitis and septicaemia. If you are eligible, USW Health Service advises contacting your GP as soon as possible to book an appointment.