Meningitis is an infection that most of us have heard of but are not necessarily familiar with all of the symptoms. However, officials and experts are urging people to remain vigilant following an outbreak of meningitis in the Canterbury area of Kent.
Dr Tom Nutt, chief executive of Meningitis Now, said: “We are deeply saddened by the news that two young people have died in a meningitis outbreak linked to the University of Kent.
“Meningitis progresses very quickly and its impact is devastating, especially for young people and their loved ones. College students and young adults are at higher risk because meningitis bacteria spread more easily in environments where people live, study and socialize in close proximity.”
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can affect anyone, but is most common in babies, toddlers, teens, and young adults.
There are two main types of meningitis: viral meningitis and bacterial meningitis.
NHS England said: “Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis.”
viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is the most common form of the disease and is more common in infants and young children.
“Viral meningitis is rarely life-threatening, but it can make people feel very sick,” Meningitis Now notes.
The NHS says viral meningitis tends to get better on its own within 7 to 10 days and can usually be treated at home.
bacterial meningitis
Bacterial meningitis is a rare disease that can be life-threatening and requires emergency medical care.
Meningococcal disease, the most common cause of bacterial meningitis, can cause inflammation of the lining of the brain and blood poisoning, which may lead to sepsis.
The UK Health Safety Authority said the onset of the disease is often sudden and early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are crucial.
Bacterial meningitis is treated with intravenous antibiotics.
(Luis Alvarez via Getty Images)
Symptoms of meningitis
Meningitis symptoms can appear suddenly and in any order, according to the NHS.
Symptoms of meningitis and sepsis may include:
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High temperature (fever)
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The rash doesn’t go away when glass is rolled on it (but the rash doesn’t always come back)
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don’t like bright lights
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Drowsiness or unresponsiveness
If you are concerned, it is recommended to trust your instincts. Do not wait for all symptoms or rash to appear—get medical help immediately.
meningitis treatment
Depending on the type of meningitis, treatment may include intravenous antibiotics, fluids given directly into a vein, or oxygen delivered through a mask.
Bacterial meningitis usually requires hospitalization for at least a week.
How is meningitis spread?
Meningitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can be spread through sneezing, coughing or kissing.
The NHS states: “Meningitis is usually contracted by people who have these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat but do not themselves have the disease.
“People with meningitis can also become infected with the virus, but this is less common.”
Who is most at risk for meningitis?
Infants and young children are at high risk because their body’s defenses are not fully developed.
Teenagers and students are also thought to be at greater risk, especially in their first year of college. This is because their noses and the back of their throats are more likely to carry the bacteria that cause meningitis. The social nature of college also makes it easier for germs to spread from person to person.
meningitis vaccine
The NHS says there are a number of vaccines that can offer some level of protection against specific causes of meningitis, including:
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MenB vaccine – Offered to babies at 8 weeks of age, followed by a second dose at 12 weeks and a booster dose at one year
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Six-in-one vaccine – Available for babies 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks and 18 months old
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pneumococcal vaccinee – Two doses for infants 16 weeks and one year old, single dose for adults 65 years or older
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MMR vaccine – Available for children 12 months and 18 months old
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ACWY vaccine for men – Available to teenagers, sixth graders and first-time college “freshmen”
“Vaccination is the only way to protect against some types of meningitis, and many students receive the MenACWY vaccine at school. However, teenagers and young adults must be aware that they are unlikely to receive the vaccine against one of the most common causes of meningitis in this age group, MenB,” Meningitis Now states.
“We encourage everyone to check that they and their families are up to date on vaccinations and to be aware of the signs and symptoms.”
What to do if you think you have meningitis
If you suspect you have meningitis, call 999 for an ambulance or go to the nearest A&E immediately.
If you are not sure if your symptoms are consistent with meningitis, or if you are experiencing anything serious, call 111 for advice.
Health officials warn that students should be extremely cautious and not wait until all symptoms appear or a rash develops before seeking medical help.
