Meningitis: The Facts
By
Chelsea
Posted 11 months ago
Tue 26 Sep, 2023 12:09 AM
Time to get vaccinated?
If you were born after September 1995 you should have received a MenC Vaccination as a small child.
However, that doesn't mean that you're immune to the disease. Your immunity may have decreased over time which means your risk of catching the disease is higher.
At university, you will come in contact with lots of new people so it’s important that you consider making an appointment with your GP to get vaccinated.
Meningitis: The facts
- Meningitis is an infection of the meninges - the membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
- Meningococcal bacteria are common and carried harmlessly in the nose or throat by about one in 10 people.
- They are passed on easily by through close contact.
What are the symptoms?
- Fever, cold hands and feet
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Drowsiness, difficult to wake up
- Irritability and/or confusion
- Stiff neck
- Severe headache or muscle pains
- Pale, blotchy skin with or without a rash
- Dislike of bright lights
- Convulsions/seizures
First-time students under 25 are eligible too so make an appointment and get protected!
