Meningitis – Frequently asked Questions
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the
membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the bacterium
Neisseria meningitides, also known as meningococcal infection. Many people (1015% of the population) carry meningococcal bacteria at the back of the throat or nose
without any ill effects. In rare instances, meningococcal overcome the body's natural
defenses and cause serious diseases, including meningitis (infection of the lining of
the brain) and septicemia (infection of the blood stream).
What are the signs and symptoms?
The common signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection include one or more of
the following:
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Drowsiness
Lethargy
Vomiting
Aching joints
Severe headache
Dislike of bright lights
Rash of red/purple spots similar to bruising under the skin
High temperature
Stiff neck
Not all of these signs and symptoms will necessarily occur together. If you have
sudden onset of the signs and symptoms or observe them in someone else, you
should seek immediate medical help.
How should I respond if I only have one or two of the symptoms?
Be aware that not all symptoms may present themselves - be particularly alert to
unusually severe headache and/or high fever. When seeking medical advice, tell the
doctor that cases of meningitis have recently occurred at the University.
How is it spread?
The infection can be spread from one person to another through a transfer of
secretions from the throat or nose during close contact. The following can spread the
disease: coughing, sneezing, kissing, sharing food or drink, sharing eating or drinking
utensils, sharing cigarettes and sharing lipstick. The infection is not acquired simply
by being in the same room as an infected person.
Is there an incubation period?
Yes. The small number of people who get meningitis or septicemia normally develop
symptoms within two to seven days of being exposed to the bacteria.
Who decides what to do if there is a suspected case of meningitis or
septicemia in the University?
Decisions about what needs to be done and the provision of advice are undertaken
by The Greater Manchester Health Protection Agency in liaison with the University.
Someone I know may have meningitis. Should I be given antibiotics? In fact
why aren't you giving them to the whole University community?
Antibiotic tablets are usually only given to people living in close proximity to the
patient with meningitis or septicemia, or the patient's boy/girlfriend. The antibiotics kill
any bacteria they may be carrying. Even if you are given this medicine it is important
to watch out for the signs and symptoms. Antibiotics may be given to particular
groups. These strong antibiotics kill the bacteria that cause meningococcal infection,
but also destroy bacteria that help the body to fight off infections. That is why these
antibiotics are given only when absolutely necessary.
What should I do if I have been in close contact with a suspected case?
If you are concerned that you may have been a close contact, but have not been
identified as such, you should immediately contact your GP.
Should I avoid contact with people who have been in contact with a suspected
case?
Do not avoid people just because they have been in contact with someone who has
suspected meningitis or septicemia. As about one in ten people carry the bacteria,
you are in contact with it every day.
Should I cancel any visits to or from friends or relatives outside the University?
Do not avoid people just because you think you may have been in contact with
someone who has suspected meningitis or septicemia. However, you should help to
raise awareness of the symptoms of meningitis, and of what to do if a case is
suspected, among all those with who you are in close contact.
What precautions can I take against meningococcal infection?
Vaccines are offered within existing immunisation programme but they cannot protect
against all strains. Knowing the signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection is
one of the best forms of defense. Meningococcal infection can be treated with
powerful antibiotics and careful management. This works best if it is given as soon as
possible. That's why it is important to know what to look out for and to get medical
help immediately if you are concerned about someone who is ill.
What should I do even if I haven’t been in close contact with a suspected case?
You should:
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Be aware of the signs and symptoms in both yourself, and others.
Seek advice immediately if at all concerned.
Look after your health by maintaining a balanced diet with adequate sleep
and exercise. Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking.
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Do not alter your daily routine – life should continue as normal.
Will sports activities at the University be affected?
The risk of transmission and subsequent infection from meningitis bacteria between
people participating in sporting activities together is extremely low. However, during
the period of four weeks from the appearance of the last case, it would be sensible
for teams that spend a prolonged period in close contact during sport to desist from
sharing water bottles or drinking vessels. Otherwise, normal sporting life should
continue including fixtures with outside teams.
Where can I obtain further information?
Meningitis Research Foundation
24-hour free phone helpline tel: 080 8800 3344
www.meningitis.org
The Meningitis Trust
24-hour helpline tel: 0845 6000 800
Email: support@meningitis-trust.org.uk
www.meningitis-trust.org.uk