Although cases of meningitis are rare, it is important to be aware of the symptoms and know when to seek help. Early recognition and medical attention can save lives.
Signs and symptoms of meningitis
Symptoms can develop quickly and may sometimes be mistaken for flu or a hangover. Common symptoms can include:
- a high fever
- severe headache
- vomiting
- neck stiffness
- sensitivity to light
- a rash that does not fade under pressure.
If you or someone you know experiences symptoms that could indicate meningitis or sepsis (which can be caused by a meningitis infection), seek urgent medical advice immediately by contacting NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Getting vaccinated against meningitis
Most UK students will have received the meningococcal ACWY vaccine (MenACWY) between the ages of 13 and 15 (as part of the NHS Vaccination Schedule).
If you haven’t had this vaccine for any reason, or if you are unsure, please speak to us about getting vaccinated. This includes international students. You can view your vaccination record on the NHS app.
The MenACWY vaccine is available free to all students who are going to university for the first time up to age 25, and protects against four types of meningitis and septicaemia.
Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine – protects against strain B.
- Offered to babies born on or after 1 May 2015.
- Most people born before this date will not have received it and cannot have it through the NHS. You may be able to get this vaccination privately at certain pharmacies or travel clinics, but stock is currently limited.
More information
- Statement issued by the UK Health Security Agency on the cases in Kent
- Meningitis – NHS
- The Meningitis Research Foundation, or call 0808 800 3344 (24 hours)
- Meningitis Now, or call 0808 80 10 388 (9am to 8pm)