Stay aware and take care of each other

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is a serious inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, usually caused by bacterial and viral infections. Some bacteria that cause meningitis can also cause septicaemia (blood poisoning).

If you are showing signs, or you think your flatmates or friends are showing symptoms of meningitis, please look after yourself and each other by reaching out for medical help.

Meningitis and septicaemia can kill. That's why it's important for you to know...

The signs and symptoms

Symptoms can include:

• being sick
• a high temperature (fever)
• a headache
• a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it (but a rash will not always develop)
• a stiff neck

Watch this short video to find out what to keep an eye out for:

Tips to avoid meningitis

The best way to prevent meningitis is to make personal hygiene a priority.

• Don't share utensils, drinks, vapes, or anything else that touches your mouth.
• Don't engage in intimate activities if you are feeling unwell.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and remember to wash your hands afterwards.
• Wipe down surfaces after use, e.g. in the kitchen or gym
• Wash your hands regularly, for at least 20 seconds.

When to get medical help

If you are worried that you or a friend may have meningitis, trust your instincts - don't wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.

• Call NHS 111 - dial 111
• If you're in halls, download the 'Who do I contact' guides for your campus.
• Contact the Student Health Service 

In an emergency

• Go to A&E or call 999 for an ambulance.
• Don't delay from seeking medical help. Going to see a doctor, nurse, or paramedic must be your priority.

What to do

• Describe the symptoms carefully and say that you think it could be meningitis or septicaemia.
• If you have had medical advice but are still worried, get medical help again, as an early diagnosis can be difficult.

After getting medical help

• If you are too unwell to continue normal daily activities or if you have been diagnosed with a serious infectious illness, it's important to let the university know via the Student Health Service (9am-5pm Monday-Friday) or by e-mailing Residences Reception.
• Make sure someone else knows that you are unwell (friends, family, flatmate, staff member) so they can check on you.

Look after each other

If you think your friend or flatmate is showing symptoms, then it's important to take action and make sure they get medical help. Remember to check in on each other and keep communal spaces clean to avoid the spreading of bacteria, especially if someone is ill.

If you have symptoms, go to the hospital immediately.

Meningitis: know the symptoms. Act fast.