🧠 What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection that causes swelling around the brain and spinal cord.
It can be caused by bacteria or viruses and can become serious very quickly if not treated.

Although rare, it is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults.

What is meningitis? Symptoms, risks and how to protect yourself – UK Health Security Agency

⚠️ Symptoms to look out for

Symptoms can appear in any order and may look like flu at first — but can worsen quickly.

Common symptoms:

  • Fever (high temperature)

  • Severe headache

  • Vomiting

  • Stiff neck

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Confusion or difficulty waking

  • Seizures (fits)

Signs of serious illness (sepsis):

  • Very cold hands and feet

  • Pale, blotchy or mottled skin

  • Severe limb or joint pain

  • Rapid breathing

  • Rash that does not fade when pressed (glass test)

👉 Meningitis can make someone very unwell within hours — keep checking anyone who is ill.

👶 Symptoms in babies

  • Floppy, unresponsive, or difficult to wake

  • High-pitched crying

  • Refusing feeds

  • Bulging soft spot (fontanelle)

  • Pale or blotchy skin

📲 Concerned or been in contact?

  • If you have been told you may have been exposed or are worried about symptoms:

    • Use our AccuRx service for advice

    • Or contact the practice

👉 Antibiotics or further advice are only needed for close contacts in some cases.

💉 Meningitis vaccines

MenB (Babies)

  • Given to children under 2 years

  • Check your child’s Red Book

  • Contact us if any vaccines were missed

MenACWY (Teenagers)

  • Given at age 13–14 in school

  • Protects against four types of meningitis

  • Catch-up available up to age 25

👉 Missed vaccines:
https://www.schoolvaccination.uk/catch-up-clinics/tower-hamlets

At the GP surgery

  • MenACWY available for ages 14–24

Not eligible on the NHS?

  • MenB and MenACWY vaccines may be available privately

🔗 Official UK guidance (recommended)

For full, up-to-date advice from UK Health Security Agency:

👉 Read UKHSA meningitis guidance

🟢 What to do

  • Mild concern: Contact the practice or use AccuRx

  • Urgent advice: Call NHS 111

  • Emergency symptoms: Call 999 immediately

👉 Do not wait for all symptoms — act early.

💬 Reassurance

  • The overall risk to the general public remains low

  • Meningitis usually spreads through close, prolonged contact (e.g. living together, kissing)

  • The most important thing you can do is know the symptoms and act quickly