Meningitis

Meningitis is the inflammation of the tissues which cover the brain and spinal cord and is caused by bacteria or viruses. There are three main types of bacterial meningiti; meningococcal (the most common), phneumococcal and haemaphilus influenza type b (known as Hib). Meningococcal septicaemia is a type of blood poisoning whereby toxins are released into the blood which break down the walls of the blood vessels allowing blood to leak out under the skin. It is the more life-threatening form of the disease.

In 1999 there were about 3,500 reported cases of meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia in the UK. That means that about 5 people in every 100,000 of the population will be affected by the disease each year. Most at risk are very young children and young adults between the ages of 17 and 22 (especially students because of their lifestyle). Both are very serious and must be treated immediately. They are spread by coughing, sneezing or kissing.

What are the symptoms?

Meningitis is not easy to identify because the symptoms are similar to those of flu and they may not all appear at the same time.

The symptoms include: fever, pains in the back and joints, vomiting, severe headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, sleepiness and confusion, rash of red/purple spots or bruises.

What treatment is available?

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial meningitis. Immediate family members and anyone in close contact with the sufferer are also treated.

Are any vaccines available?

There is no vaccine against Group B meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia (the most common strain of the disease). A vaccine that protects against Hib meningitis is offered as part of the childhood immunisation programme. A new vaccine that protects against the rarer Group C meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia is also now available and may be offered at university.

What to do if meningitis is suspected?

You must contact your doctor immediately and if they are not available, go to the nearest hospital casualty department. Meningitis needs to be treated as soon as possible.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Medical Centre Tel: (38)6655
The Meningitis Research Foundation,
24 hour Helpline: 0808 800 3344
Meningitis Trust