Meningitis
Find out what meningitis is, how to spot the symptoms, and what to do if you’re worried about someone.
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Request wellbeing supportOccasionally you might hear about cases of meningitis in the media. These situations can sound worrying, especially since they can develop quickly. While there are no reported cases in our student population, it’s helpful to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia.
Common symptoms can include things like a high fever, a rash that doesn’t fade when you roll a glass over it, a stiff neck, bad headaches, being very sleepy, or feeling confused. Not everyone gets all the symptoms, so it’s good to know what to look out for.
If you’re not sure what the signs are—or just want to doublecheck—take a moment to look through the info from the NHS. It’s quick, easy to read, and could help you or someone around you get help fast.
You can also follow the link below for a comprehensive update.
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord and can be caused by different organisms, including bacteria and viruses. Some bacteria that cause meningitis can also cause Septicaemia (blood poisoning).
University students can be more vulnerable due to living in shared housing or halls of residence. In many cases young people come together from all over the country, and the world - to live in one place and can be exposed to bacteria and viruses their bodies have not met before. This is why so many new students get ‘fresher’s flu’. The early symptoms of meningitis are similar to many other common things, such as the flu, or maybe a hangover. It’s easy to mistake meningitis for something else.
How can you protect yourself?
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from meningitis, including at university. Make sure you’ve had the MenACWY jab before you go. It’s free for eligible young people, but it doesn’t cover every type of meningitis.
Most young people who went to school in the UK have already had the Men ACWY jab when they were at school and don’t need to have it again. But some young people missed it when they were at school or come from countries outside the UK where the Men ACWY jab was not part of the routine vaccination schedule. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had it, check with your GP or on the NHS app first before requesting it. Students who missed the vaccine can still get it for free up to age 25.
For more information, please visit https://www.meningitisnow.org/get-support/supporting-young-people/
The MenACWY jab doesn't protect against MenB, which is another type of meningitis. The NHS only recommends the MenB vaccine for babies under two years old and people with certain medical conditions. The MenB jab is available privately.
So, to protect yourself against meningitis it's also vital to known the signs and symptoms and act quickly if you think you or someone you know has them.
Medical Resources
GP Registration
One of the first things you should do when you move to Newcastle is to Register with a local GP. You can do this by visiting https://www.studentgpreg.org.uk/ and taking ten minutes to complete all the relevant information. If you have any questions regarding the registration process, please contact our colleagues at Involve North East by emailing beinvolved@involvene.org.uk with your query.
NHS App
After registering with a GP, you can also download the NHS app which can help you book appointments (if supported by your GP surgery) and give you instant access to your NHS health record.
Think Pharmacy First
Please be aware that for some healthcare queries, you do not need to book an appointment with your GP and can seek help from your local pharmacy. Find out about the health conditions pharmacists can treat.
If you find yourself needing urgent support, you can find a range of support resources here.