There are certain health warnings so deeply embedded in our brains that they feel instinctive. Chest pain? Could be a heart attack. A changing mole? Get it checked. A rash that refuses to disappear under a glass? Meningitis.
The problem is that meningitis doesn’t always produce a rash. When it does, the rash may arrive late – by which point someone can already be seriously unwell. So, while the glass test remains useful, waiting for spots to appear could waste vital time.
This warning feels particularly timely since it was announced this week that hundreds of thousands of young people in England are now eligible to book a free meningitis B vaccination. This follows a series of serious outbreaks – including one in Kent that claimed the lives of two teenagers.
The one-off programme covers Year 13 pupils aged 17 and 18, as well as under-25s starting university or another residential further-education course this autumn. Vaccinations begin on 20 July, with two doses offered at least 28 days apart.
But even vaccination doesn’t offer protection against every form of meningitis – which makes knowing the other symptoms important.
What Is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord. It can be very serious and even life-threatening if not treated quickly, according to the NHS.
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‘Meningitis is a serious, life-threatening illness that can progress quickly, which is why recognising the signs and seeking medical help early is so important,’ says Caroline Hughes, support services manager at the Meningitis Research Foundation.
The problem? Meningitis symptoms can look disconcertingly ordinary.
‘One of the challenges with meningitis is that the early symptoms, such as headaches, fever and vomiting, can look very similar to those of more common, less serious illnesses. This means it can easily be mistaken for a cold, flu, Covid or even a hangover,’ she says.
In other words, meningitis could look like the aftermath of a late night, a bug picked up during Freshers’ Week or a nasty cold or flu you assume will improve after some sleep.
‘Vaccination is the best protection we have against the most common and severe causes of meningitis, and immunisation programmes have dramatically reduced cases around the world,’ Hughes adds. ‘But vaccines do not protect against every type of meningitis, so it remains important for everyone to know the signs and symptoms.’
What Are the Other Signs and Symptoms of Meningitis?
According to the Meningitis Research Foundation, the other signs and symptoms to know include:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Sleepy or difficult to wake
- Muscle or joint pain
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Cold hands and feet
- Severe headache
It’s also important to know that not everyone will experience every symptom and they can appear in any order, explains Hughes.
‘Knowing the signs and acting quickly can help ensure someone gets the right medical care as soon as possible and gives them the best chance of recovery,’ she says.
When Should You Seek Help?
‘Our advice is always to trust your instincts. If someone is unwell, getting worse quickly, becoming confused, unusually drowsy or difficult to wake, and you suspect meningitis, don’t wait,’ says Hughes.
If you think someone may have meningitis or meningococcal septicaemia, call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not wait for a rash – or for every symptom to appear.
For more information about symptoms or confidential support, visit the Meningitis Research Foundation or call its UK helpline on 080 8800 3344.
