Meningitis: symptoms, causes and how to protect yourself

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection of the protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses or bacteria. The NHS explains that viral meningitis is more common and usually clears up within 7 to 10 days, while bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious.

The Meningitis Research Foundation describes meningitis as a serious, often life-threatening illness that can kill in hours. That is why knowing the signs, and acting quickly, matters so much.

What are the symptoms of meningitis?

Symptoms can appear in any order, and not everyone gets all of them. The NHS says to call 999 or go to A and E straight away if you or someone else:

• has a very high or very low temperature, feels hot or cold to the touch, or is shivery
• has a very painful headache
• is confused, has slurred speech or is not making sense
• has a stiff neck and cannot look at bright lights
• has a rash that does not fade when you press it
• has a seizure for the first time

For babies and children under 5, the NHS also lists a very high temperature, a weak, high-pitched or continuous cry, and not responding as they normally do, not feeding, or being floppy, more sleepy or difficult to wake. Trust your instincts: if someone is getting worse, get medical help.

How do you do the glass test?

The NHS says a meningitis rash usually starts as small red pinpricks before spreading quickly and turning into red or purple blotches. The rash does not fade if you press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin. It can be harder to see on black or brown skin, so check paler areas such as the palms of the hands, the soles of the feet, the roof of the mouth, the whites of the eyes or inside the eyelids.

But do not wait for a rash. Meningitis Now stresses that if someone is ill and getting worse, you should get medical help immediately, whether or not there is a rash.

How does meningitis spread?

The bacteria and viruses that cause meningitis can be passed on through close contact. The NHS says this includes contact with someone's spit, such as kissing, or sharing drinks or vapes. Many people carry these germs without becoming ill, and meningitis itself is uncommon.

Who is most at risk?

Anyone can get meningitis, but babies, young children, teenagers and young adults are more likely to get it. Starting university can be a time of higher risk, because many people are mixing closely for the first time. The NHS notes that meningitis can spread very quickly in places like universities and colleges.

How can vaccines help?

Vaccines are the best way to protect against meningitis. The NHS says children and teenagers are offered vaccines that protect against the main causes, including the MenB, MenACWY, pneumococcal, 6-in-1 and MMRV vaccines.

The MenACWY vaccine is usually given at 13 or 14, in school Year 9. Anyone who missed it can still have it up to the age of 25, so it is worth checking before starting university or college. Your GP practice can tell you which vaccines you or your children have had.

Where can you get support?

Meningitis can have a lasting effect on people and families. The Meningitis Research Foundation runs a free helpline on 0808 800 3344, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Meningitis Now also offers support for people affected.