The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and NHS Dorset are reminding young people, parents and carers that meningitis is rare, but it is important to know the symptoms and understand what current vaccinations protect against. Although anyone can get meningitis, it’s most common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults.
Symptoms can appear in any order and not everyone gets them all. They include:
- high temperature
- headache
- vomiting
- a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it
- neck stiffness
- dislike of bright lights
- confusion, drowsiness or difficulty waking
- cold hands and feet, pale or blotchy skin, fast breathing (signs of septicaemia)
Full symptom guidance is available on the UKHSA website: What is meningitis? Symptoms, risks and how to protect yourself – UK Health Security Agency
Several different infections can cause meningitis. The NHS offers two key vaccinations to help protect against some of the most serious types:
- The MenACWY vaccination is offered to teenagers and young adults and is generally given at school by School Aged Immunisations Services. It protects against four meningococcal strains (A, C, W and Y) and helps reduce spread in the wider community. Young people who have missed this offer can still catch up on this vaccination up to the age of 25 by speaking to their GP. Read more here: staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations/#menacwy
- The MenB vaccination is offered to infants. This protects babies from getting seriously ill with meningococcal B disease, but it does not prevent the bacteria spreading.
UKHSA and NHS Dorset will continue working with universities, GP practices and community teams to help keep young people safe and informed.
If you are worried about symptoms or feel something is not right, seek medical help straight away. Use NHS 111 online or call 111 for urgent advice, and call 999 or go to A&E if someone becomes very unwell with symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia.
