NHS chiefs have issued a warning, with people told to consult their GPs in certain circumstances. Health officials took to X, previously known as Twitter, on Monday to raise awareness about a severe infection – and the importance of being up to date with vaccinations.
The post reads: “Meningitis can be life-threatening and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves. Speak to your GP if you’re not sure whether you or your child’s vaccinations are up to date.”
Those who have missed a vaccine are also encouraged to contact their GP, with reminders that teenagers and young adults are at “high risk” of catching meningitis. A link accompanying the post directs people to the NHS website for further information, explaining that meningitis “can be caused by a number of different infections, so several vaccinations offer some protection against it.”
The guidance adds that children “should receive most of these as part of the NHS vaccination schedule.”
Meningitis can become extremely serious if not treated promptly, potentially leading to life-threatening sepsis and permanent brain or nerve damage.
Symptoms include a high temperature, cold hands and feet, vomiting, confusion, rapid breathing, muscle and joint pain, pale, mottled or blotchy skin, spots or a rash, headache, a stiff neck, aversion to bright lights, extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking up, and/or seizures.
Babies might also turn away from feeds, show irritability, cry in a high-pitched tone, exhibit stiffness or floppiness, or become unresponsive, and they may have a bulging soft spot on their head. The NHS advises: “Symptoms of meningitis can appear in any order. Some may not appear at all. In the early stages, there may not be a rash, or the rash may fade when pressure is applied.
“You should get medical help immediately if you’re concerned about yourself or your child. Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops.”