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Meningitis
Posted or Updated on 7 Apr 2026
Meningitis – Important Information for Patients
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria or viruses and can affect people of any age, but it is more common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults.
Meningitis can become very serious very quickly and may be life‑threatening if not treated promptly. Some types can also lead to sepsis (blood poisoning).
When to seek medical help
- Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you think you or someone you care for may have Meningitis or sepsis.
- Use NHS 111 if you are unsure but concerned.
- If you have already sought advice and symptoms worsen, seek medical help again urgently.
Meningitis and sepsis can worsen very quickly, and early treatment can be life‑saving.
Signs and symptoms to look out for
Symptoms can develop suddenly and may appear in any order. Not everyone will have all symptoms.
Common symptoms include:
- High temperature (fever)
- Severe headache
- Vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Dislike of bright lights
- Cold hands and feet
- Muscle or joint pain
- Confusion, drowsiness, or difficulty waking
- Seizures (fits)
- A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
(on darker skin, check the palms, soles, inside the eyelids, or roof of the mouth)
In babies and young children, symptoms may also include:
- Poor feeding
- Irritability
- A high‑pitched cry
- Being floppy or unusually unresponsive
- A bulging soft spot on the head (fontanelle)
Trust your instincts — do not wait for all symptoms to appear or for a rash to develop.
Vaccination and prevention
Vaccination helps protect against some of the most serious causes of meningitis. Several vaccines are offered as part of the NHS routine immunisation programme.
Further information on the routine vaccination schedule: Meningitis - Vaccination - NHS
Recent travel or university exposure
In some situations, Public Health teams may advise additional precautions following cases of meningococcal disease linked to a specific area, university, or setting.
If you have recently returned from an area or university where meningococcal disease has been identified, and you have been advised by Public Health, your university, or NHS services that you are eligible for vaccination, we are able to provide this at the surgery.
This may include:
- Students or staff returning from an affected university or halls of residence
- Individuals identified as close contacts of a confirmed case
- People who have been advised to take preventative antibiotics and offered vaccination
If you believe this applies to you, please contact the surgery so we can check eligibility and arrange vaccination if appropriate.
For the wider population, the overall risk remains low, and vaccination is only offered where advised by Public Health.
Important reassurance
- Vaccination is not required for everyone returning from university or travel
- It is only offered where there is a specific Public Health recommendation
- Symptoms should always be acted on urgently, regardless of vaccination status
If you are unwell or develop symptoms of concern, seek medical advice immediately.