What are the symptoms of meningitis and how do you get it?

Meningitis can affect anyone, but it's most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. It’s an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges), reports the NHS. If it’s not treated quickly, meningitis can be “very serious” and around 1 in 10 cases of bacterial meningitis is “fatal”.

It can also cause “life-threatening” sepsis and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves. The signs and symptoms of meningitis can develop suddenly. Don’t assume it’s flu.

Trust your instincts and call NHS 24 free on 111 to seek urgent medical help if you become concerned. Find out more at https://t.co/08b1SoLA1C #BeMeningitisAlert pic.

twitter.com/R9wfv7xkam — NHS Grampian (@NHSGrampian) March 15, 2024 How do you catch bacterial meningitis? There are several vaccinations available that offer some protection against certain causes of meningitis . These include: MenB vaccine – offered to babies aged 8 weeks, followed by a second dose at 16 weeks and a booster at 1 year 6-in-1 vaccine – offered to babies at 8, 12 and 16 weeks of age pneumococcal vaccine – 2 doses offered to babies at 12 weeks and 1 year, and a single dose offered to adults aged 65 or over Hib/MenC vaccine – offered to babies at 1 year of age MMR vaccine – offered to babies at 1 year and a second dose at 3 years and 4 months MenACWY vaccine – offered to teenagers, sixth formers and "fresher" students going to university for the first.