What is meningitis?

Meningitis can be caused by a variety of organisms. The meningococcal bacteria can cause two types of illness: meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Of these, septicaemia is the more dangerous and the more likely to be fatal. The bacteria live in the nose and throat and are only passed on by prolonged, close contact. It has been estimated that between 10% and 20% of the population are carrying the bacteria at any given time and the great majority of people carry them without ever developing the disease. The important thing to know is that the disease can develop rapidly, sometimes within a matter of hours. Viral meningitis can cause flu-like symptoms which are sometimes quite severe but which are not life threatening. There is no connection between this illness and the more serious ones caused by the meningococcal bacteria.

Who is at risk?

Meningococcal disease is relatively rare but is frequently deadly. One in ten die and one in seven survivors are left with permanent disabilities such as deafness, brain damage or paralysis. It can strike anyone, at any time, but, next to children, teenagers and young adults are the group most at risk from meningitis.

Have there been any cases at this University?

In November a student in one of the Halls of Residence was taken ill with meningococcal septicaemia. Thanks to the vigilance of his Hall Tutor and the medical staff on duty, he was admitted to hospital swiftly and, as a consequence, is making a full recovery.

Are other people more at risk because of this?

The vast majority of cases are isolated ones and, because the bacteria can only be passed on by prolonged, close contact, the recent case did not increase the risk for the vast majority of members of the University. The risk was slightly increased for a very small number of close, personal contacts of the student who was taken ill but they were all traced and given preventative antibiotics.

What are the symptoms?

Early symptoms may be similar to those you get with flu or a hangover:

feeling feverish
vomiting
severe headache
stiff neck, back and joint pains

If any of the following symptoms develop;

rash of tiny red bruises that don't fade under pressure
severe dislike of light
disorientation or coma

GET MEDICAL HELP URGENTLY
REMEMBER: EARLY TREATMENT SAVES LIVES

What should I be telling students?

Please stress the following when talking to students:

although meningitis is a deadly disease it is relatively rare
nevertheless, it is essential that they know the symptoms to look out for
if they are concerned about any symptoms they should contact a doctor
if they are feeling ill, they should make sure that their friends or Hall Tutor know this - having someone check on them could save their life

How can I get further information?

If you want information about what the University is doing in relation to meningitis contact Pamela Bell-Ashe, Assistant Registrar (Student Services) on extension 2243. For information about meningitis in general contact Meningitis Merseyside on 424 4402 or National Meningitis Trust on 0345 538118 (24 hour support line)