Meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are rare but severe diseases that can kill or leave people with life changing disabilities and health problems. Young adults, and university students in particular, are at increased risk.
Symptoms can start like a bad case of flu but they get worse very quickly. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and be prepared to take urgent action, as early treatment can be lifesaving.
Symptoms can include:
- a rash
- confusion/delirium
- a bad headache
- vomiting
- a stiff neck
- muscle and joint pain
- a high temperature/fever
- cold hands and feet
- a dislike of bright lights
- drowsiness or difficulty waking up
- rapid breathing
- diarrhoea and stomach cramps
Not everyone will develop all these symptoms – they can appear in any order and be mixed between the two illnesses.
Many of the early signs – vomiting, fever, aches, general tiredness and headaches – are also signs of less serious illnesses like colds and flu but someone with meningitis or septicaemia will usually become seriously ill in a matter of hours. It is also potentially very serious and can kill.
You should get medical advice as soon as possible if you or a friend have symptoms of concern or are a condition that is rapidly getting worse. Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E immediately.
For further information about the symptoms please visit the NHS website.
How to get a vaccination
You can protect yourself by getting a free MenACWY vaccination. This is available for any unprotected individual under 25 years of age. Students of any nationality entering a UK university for the first time who have not had MenACWY vaccine are also eligible up to their 25th birthday.
The MenACWY vaccine protects against 4 different causes of meningitis and septicaemia: meningococcal (Men) A, C, W and Y diseases. However, the vaccine can’t prevent all forms of meningitis and septicaemia and so it is very important that you are aware of the signs and symptoms.
If you have not been vaccinated, or you are not sure, it is important you contact your GP and arrange to receive the vaccines. If you haven’t registered with a GP in Liverpool yet, make sure you contact Brownlow Health or your local GP as soon as possible to register.