The NHS has urged people to consider getting vaccinated against meningitis, a severe infection that targets the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The condition is most common among babies, young children, teenagers and young adults.
Without proper treatment, the infection can be “very serious” and may even prove fatal as it can lead to sepsis. Over the weekend, the NHS posted on X, previously Twitter: “Meningitis can be life-threatening and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves. Several vaccinations offer protection against it.”
As meningitis can stem from various infections, multiple vaccinations can provide some defence against it.
These jabs should be part of the standard NHS vaccination programme for most children. However, if you’re unsure, consult your GP to check whether your child’s immunisations are up-to-date.
If you suspect you or someone in your care might have meningitis or sepsis, dial 999 for an ambulance or head straight to your nearest A&E. Health authorities advise: “Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.”
Meningitis usually arises from bacterial or viral infections, with the bacterial variety being rarer but considerably more dangerous than the viral type.
The illness is commonly transmitted from people who carry these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat without displaying any signs of sickness themselves.
It’s also feasible to contract meningitis directly from someone suffering from the condition, although this happens less often.
Particular vaccinations offer some protection against certain triggers of meningitis, according to the NHS.
Individuals suspected of having meningitis will usually face hospital examinations to verify the diagnosis and establish whether it’s triggered by a viral or bacterial infection.
The NHS said: “Bacterial meningitis usually needs to be treated in hospital for at least a week.”
Most patients with bacterial meningitis who are treated quickly will make a full recovery, though some may face serious lifelong complications.
