Get your Meningitis vaccination – it could save your life!
Cases of Meningitis W are increasing in UK universities, with first year students being particularly at risk. One in ten cases of meningitis is fatal and can lead to long-term health problems, such as amputation, deafness and epilepsy.
With early detection and treatment people can make a full recovery from meningitis, but symptoms of the disease are often mistaken for minor illnesses.
To help reduce your risk of having Meningitis you should:
- Have the Men ACWY vaccine, even if you have already had the Meningitis C vaccine. The vaccine is available at your local GP and it is free of charge for first year students under 25.
- Register with a local GP, if you have not done so already.
- Make a note of the symptoms of Meningitis and Septicaemia.
- Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you think you have Meningitis. (Call NHS 111 or your GP surgery for advice if you're not sure if it's anything serious or you think you may have come into contact with someone with meningitis).
Find your closest GP practice using NHS Choice’s GP finder.
Symptoms of Meningitis
Symptoms of Meningitis develop suddenly and can include:
- a high temperature (fever) over 37.5 °C
- being sick
- a headache
- a blotchy rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it (this will not always develop)
- a stiff neck
- a dislike of bright lights
- drowsiness or unresponsiveness
- seizures (fits).
For more information about the Men ACWY vaccine and Meningitis please go to NHS Choices or the Meningitis Now website.