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Meningitis Symptoms and Vaccination Information
The University of Bath have confirmed that one of their
students was recently admitted to hospital with viral meningitis. The
student has since been discharged, and is recovering well at home.
Viral meningitis is a milder, more common form of the
infection, compared to bacterial meningitis, which presents a greater risk
to students, especially in the winter months.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA),is taking this
opportunity to remind students of the need to be aware and vigilant for the
signs and symptoms of bacterial meningitis (see below), and to ask students
to check their immunisation history. A routine meningitis vaccine can
protect against the C strain of bacterial meningitis.
It remains important that you use the leaflets available at Newton Park and Sion Hill to familiarise yourselves with the symptoms of meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia (blood poisoning). We would also ask you to be vigilant on behalf of both yourselves and your fellow students/colleagues and to keep in regular contact with parents, family and friends to ensure that all are kept informed. Further information may be obtained from the web-site of the Meningitis Trust or the Meningitis Research Foundation.
What Is Meningitis?
Meningitis is the inflammation of the tissues which cover the brain and spinal cord. Most cases in the UK and Ireland are caused by bacteria or viruses. Bacterial meningitis is generally more serious. While meningococcal disease is the main cause of bacterial meningitis, there are many other types including pneumococcal, Hib, Group B streptococcal and others.
What Is Meningococcal Septicaemia?
Meningococcal septicaemia is a type of blood poisoning which is caused by the same bacteria that cause the most common form of bacterial meningitis. It is the more life-threatening form of the disease.
With septicaemia, the bacteria release toxins into the blood which break down the walls of the blood vessels allowing blood to leak out under the skin. This leaking causes marks on the skin - a rash of red or brownish pin prick spots which develop into purple bruises, blood blisters or blood spots. Septicaemia can make you very ill because it also reduces the amount of blood reaching vital organs such as the liver and kidneys.
Symptoms In Adults
Symptoms in Children and Teenagers
Symptoms In Babies and Toddlers
Meningitis C Vaccination
You may well have had a meningitis vaccination already. If you haven't and would like to arrange vaccination, then please speak to our medical service. You will have the opportunity to register with the medical service during your first week, but you are free to go along at any time available. Students who do not wish to register with our medical service should speak to their own GP about vaccination.
To arrange an appointment with the doctor, follow this link.