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Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the lining of the brain. The bacteria which cause meningitis and meningococcal disease are spread by coughing, sneezing or direct contact such as kissing, and often occur in places where there are large groups of people such as Universities
Meningitis and meningococcal disease are rare but can be extremely dangerous, resulting in deafness, blindness, paralysis, loss of arms or legs, and even death. If the symptoms are noticed early and hospital treatment with strong antibiotics is given quickly, people can recover fully
The symptoms often develop quickly, over just a few hours, but sometimes over a few days. The symptoms can occur in any order, and not all may occur. The symptoms may look like a less serious illness at first, such as flu, but if symptoms become worse, even if you think it was flu to start with, it may be meningitis or septicaemia. Seek expert advice if uncertain
Below are possible symptoms of meningitis or septicaemia. If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia get medical help immediately
Symptoms in adults and children (the symptoms can occur in any order, and not all may occur):
- Fever
- headache
- nausea
- vomiting
- muscle pain
- cold hands and feet
- drowsiness
- confusion and irritability
- dislike of bright lights
- stiff neck
- spots/rash
Symptoms in babies (the symptoms can occur in any order, and not all may occur):
- fever
- cold hands and feet
- refusing food
- vomiting
- pale blotchy skin
- dislikes being handled
- floppy, listless, unresponsive
- drowsiness
- spots/rash
- rapid breathing or grunting
- unusual crying or moaning
- twitching (spasms) of the limbs
The glass test
The spots/rash does not fade when the side of a clear drinking glass is pressed firmly against the skin. Check regularly as the spots/rash may fade at first. A fever together with spots/rash that does not fade under pressure is a medical emergency
Meningitis C immunisation
Students under 24 who have not received meningitis vaccination prior
to coming to Leeds should contact us to ask about a Men C injection
We can give you an injection of Men C vaccine which protects you against the most common type of Meningitis. It does not protect against all types of the disease, so it's very important that you know the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia
This leaflet has been produced specifically for students: 
Immunisation advice for new students
Source: LSMP
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