Meningitis and septicaemia
Meningitis and septicaemia are major health risks for young adults.
Although rare, the bacteria can spread rapidly and cause serious illness in otherwise healthy people.
Young people going on to university or college for the first time are particularly at risk of meningitis because they mix with so many other students, some of whom are unknowingly carrying the bacteria at the back of their nose and throat. It can spread by coughing, sneezing, kissing and sharing things like vapes or cutlery.
Vaccinations
Students up to age 25 are eligible for a free vaccination, which helps protect against some strains of meningococcal disease.
There are numerous strains of the meningococcal infection. The MenACWY vaccination gives good protection against MenA, MenC, MenW, and MenY and is routinely offered to teenagers in UK schools Years 9 and 10. However, this vaccine does not protect against all forms of meningococcal disease. Other strains such as MenB can circulate in young adults, which is why it’s important to know how to spot the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as early detection and treatment can save lives.
Cases of measles and mumps which can cause meningitis, have also been rising. Manchester Health Protection Unit strongly advises that you have the MMR vaccinations if you didn’t receive the full course of vaccinations as a child.
If you're not sure if you're fully protected against meningitis, or want to find out more about getting the vaccination, speak with your GP.
What is meningococcal disease and what are the symptoms?
Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but serious disease caused by meningococcal bacteria. Very occasionally, the meningococcal bacteria can cause serious illness such as meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can rapidly lead to sepsis.
The onset of illness is often sudden and early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics is vital.
Early symptoms, which may not always be present, include:
- A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
- Sudden onset of high fever
- Severe and worsening headache
- Stiff neck
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Joint and muscle pain
- Dislike of bright lights
- Very cold hands and feet
- Seizures
- Confusion/delirium
- Extreme sleepiness/difficulty waking
Meningitis can be hard to identify at first because it can be like flu. If you, or a friend develop symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia, especially if symptoms are getting worse, seek urgent medical help; either at the closest hospital Accident and Emergency department, or by dialling 999. Trust your instinct. You can also call NHS 111 for advice if you are unsure.
The glass test
Someone with septicaemia may develop a few spots or a widespread rash with a fever. Later, the rash can develop into purple blotches that do not fade under pressure.
You can test this by pressing the side of a drinking glass against the rash. If you have a fever and a rash, and the rash does not fade under pressure, get medical help immediately by calling 999 or getting someone to take you to the nearest hospital emergency department.
If you suspect that you or someone else you know has meningitis, seek medical advice immediately. Don’t wait for a rash to develop.
Further information
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) blog: What is meningitis?
- The Meningitis Research Foundation, 0808 800 3344 (24 hours)
- Meningitis Now, 0808 80 10 388 (9am – 8pm)
If you need further support or advice, our University’s Occupational Health team can also be contacted at: OccupationalHealth@manchester.ac.uk