| MENINGITIS UPDATE |
What are meningitis and septicaemia?
How serious are meningitis and septicaemia?
Who is most at risk?
How common is the disease and how is it spread?
What is the vaccine?
What protection does the vaccine provide?
Where should you go to be immunised?
Are there any side effects from the vaccine?
Are there any reasons not to have this vaccine?
BE AWARE OF THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MENINGITIS AND SEPTICAEMIA
This vaccine does not protect you agaainst all causes of meningitis and septicaemia. That is why it is very important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia. Early signs are often mild and similiar to those you get with flu or a hangover.
The signs can include:
* The Glass Test:
Can meningitis and septicaemia be treated?
Remember, if you recognise the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia and act quickly - you can make a difference!
24 hour helplines are available at:
080 8800 3344 : Meningitis Research Foundation
Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by either bacteria or viruses. In septicaemia, bacteria infect the blood and may spread through the body to make you very ill. Meningitis and septicaemia can kill.
Meningitis and septicaemia are quite rare, but can be extremely dangerous, resulting in deafness, blindness, loss of limbs or even death. However, if symptons are noticed and treatment is given quickly people can recover fully.
Cases in students occur mostly among first years. These cases are particulalry likely in the first few weeks of starting university or college.
Nearly onein four young people carry the bacteria in the nose and throat without developing meningitis or septicaemia.
The vaccine provides protection againtst group A and C meningitis and septicaemia. The vaccine is not live. It contains parts of the bacteria which should protect you but cannot give you meningitis or septicaemia. You only need one dose.
One injection should provide protection that lasts for 3 to 5 years. It is important to be immunised as soon as possible but you should remain alert for the signs and symptons of meningitis and septicaemia.
You should arrange to get the vaccine at your GP surgery. Ring up and make an appointment. Give your GP at least a week's notice to order the vaccine. It is best to get immunised before you go to university or college. If you don't get the chance to visit your GP, then get the vaccine when you start university or college.
Possible side effects of the vaccine are usually mild and short term. About 1-2 days after being immunised you may ahve a sore arm and some redness and swelling where the injection was given. This will usually go away within a few days. Some people might develop a slight temperature lasting a few hours.
You should not have the vaccine if you are ill and running a temperature at the time of the immunisation. If you think you might be pregnant, you should tell your GP.
Get medical help urgently if any of the following symptoms develop:
If you or a friend develop some of these symptoms or feel worried, don't delay - talk to a GP or nurse. Better safe than sorry!
By pressing the side of a glass against the rash - you will be able to see if it fades colour under pressure. If it doesn't change colour, contact your doctor immediately.
If at any time you feel that you or someone you know might have meningitis or septicaemia, you should contact your GP or go to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department immediately. A person diagnosed as having meningitis will be treated with antibiotics straight away, and admitted to hospital.
0845 6000 800 : National Meninigitis Trust