Young people and meningitis – what you need to know
Meningitis is a serious disease that strikes quickly, but whose impact can last a lifetime. Meningitis can kill, or result in serious after-effects like limb loss, hearing loss and acquired brain injury. It can affect anyone at any time.
Teenagers and young people are at increased risk, with up to 1 in 4 people in the age group carrying meningitis-causing bacteria compared to1 in 10 in the general population. So, it’s vital that young people know how to recognise the signs and symptoms of meningitis in teenagers and young adults.
Sound the alarm
If someone is ill and getting worse, sound the alarm by calling their GP or NHS 111 straight away. In an emergency dial 999. The symptoms of meningitis can be confused with Covid-19, a hangover, freshers’ flu or a stomach bug. But meningitis is a medical emergency, so it's vital to act fast and seek urgent medical assistance.
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Sound the alarm
Meningitis vaccine for young people
The only way to prevent meningitis is through vaccination. Make sure you’ve had your MenACWY vaccine – it’s free for eligible young people, but it doesn’t protect against all forms of meningitis.
MenB is one of the most common causes of bacterial meningitis in the UK, but only babies and those with an underlying medical condition putting them at increased risk currently receive the MenB vaccine. The MenB vaccine is available privately.
What to do if someone is ill
If someone is ill, keep checking on them. If they are getting worse, it could be meningitis. Meningitis is a medical emergency. Sound the alarm by calling 111 or your GP. You could save a life.
Common signs & symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia
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Fever, cold hands and feet
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Vomiting
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Drowsy, difficult to wake
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Confusion and irritability
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Severe muscle pain
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Pale, blotchy skin. Spots/rash
See the Glass Test -
Severe headache
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Stiff neck
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Dislike bright lights
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Convulsions/seizures
Who are Meningitis Now?
Meningitis Now are the UK’s leading meningitis charity. We save lives and rebuild futures by raising awareness, funding research and providing support for people who’ve been affected by meningitis.
Awareness: We work tirelessly to raise awareness of meningitis across the UKbecause it saves lives. Our incredible volunteers and companies like Beds & Bars are vital in helping us make sure as many people as possible know about meningitis.
Research: Over the last 40 years we’ve funded over £12.6 million of research – contributing to the development and introduction of five lifesaving meningitis vaccines in the UK.
Support: We are leading the way in meningitis aftercare and support, providing emotional, practical and financial support for everyone in the UK affected by meningitis – all free of charge.
You can help us save lives and rebuild futures
We rely on fundraising to deliver our vital work. We need to raise millions of pounds each year to save lives and rebuild futures. Marathons, bake sales, direct debits, gifts in wills and working with grant givers, companies and celebrities – they all bring us closer to achieving our vision.
Together, we can save and change lives. Why not join us?
Meningitis stories
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Sophia S's story
Sophia, from Hertfordshire, was at university in Manchester when she became gravely ill with meningitis and septicaemia
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Alex T's Story
A talented DJ with his whole future ahead of him, 25-year-old Alex from Leeds tragically died in 2020 after contracting meningitis. His mum, Sue, has shared her son’s story in support of our annual Ribbon Appeal, which offers everyone the chance to remember their loved ones and donate to fight back against this devastating disease.
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Charles S's Story
Student Charles, from London, was 24 when he fell ill with flu like symptoms, including a stiff neck and photophobia. He ignored the symptoms because he hadn’t heard of viral meningitis, but his mother quickly realised something was not right and called 999. Charles is now one of our volunteer ambassadors and tells his story here.
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Freya S's story
Freya draws on experience to Believe and Achieve
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Tilly B’s Story
Tilly from Lewes, East Sussex, was ready to enjoy a summer festival when she developed a fever. Having been told she had heatstroke she was eventually diagnosed with viral meningitis. She tells us what happened next
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Eliana S's Story
Eighteen-year-old Eliana was in her first year at university when she fell ill with meningococcal meningitis last October. Thanks to her parents and flatmates Eliana was taken to hospital. Fortunately, Eliana, from Bromley in Kent, has made a good recovery and is back fully embracing student life – and passionately raising awareness, as she tells us here.
