Do not wait for every symptom. Do not wait for a rash. If you are worried, say so.
Why this matters…
Meningitis is inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It may be caused by bacteria or viruses. Bacterial meningitis is rarer but can be very serious.
It is spread through droplet infection; i.e. sneezing, coughing or kissing as the bacteria or virus is usually carried in the nose.
Some cases can lead to sepsis, which is life-threatening. Early recognition and urgent action can save lives.
Important messages
Symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, drowsiness, confusion, seizures, cold hands and feet, muscle or joint pain, pale or mottled skin, and rapid breathing. You may not see all of these.
Rash that does not fade
Use the glass test, but remember a rash may be absent.
Neck stiffness or photophobia
Pain when bending the neck or strong light sensitivity matters.
Nausea, vomiting or fever
A sudden fever with vomiting should not be ignored.
Emergency: act now
Urgent but unsure
University communication
Clinic attendance
Students may need time away from teaching, placement or work-based learning to attend GP appointments, vaccination clinics, urgent care or hospital review.
Illness-related delay
If a student is unwell or delayed in submitting assignments, they should inform their tutor or relevant university contact promptly so support can be considered.
Exams and assessments
Where appropriate, universities may be able to consider special arrangements, mitigation, extensions or deferrals, but the student must tell the relevant person and follow local procedures.
Pastoral support
Students may also need help with wellbeing, accommodation, communication with family, catching up on missed learning and signposting to wider student services.
Meningitis can cause sepsis, which is life-threatening.
