The UK’s largest meningitis charity has debunked five widespread myths surrounding the serious illness. According to the NHS, meningitis is an infection affecting the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can trigger life-threatening sepsis, making urgent medical treatment vital.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has called on the public to ‘know the signs’ after a MenB outbreak in Kent. Tragically, two people have lost their lives, prompting a vaccination programme to be launched for groups within the local community.
The UKHSA said: « The most important thing you can do is know the symptoms and act quickly if they appear ». Symptoms to look out for include:
- a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
- sudden onset of high fever
- severe and worsening headache
- stiff neck
- vomiting and diarrhoea
- joint and muscle pain
- dislike of bright lights
- very cold hands and feet
- seizures
- confusion or delirium
- extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
It added: « If you or someone you know develops these symptoms, seek medical help urgently by going to your nearest A&E or calling 999. If a friend goes to bed unwell, check on them regularly. Early treatment can be lifesaving. »
It’s also crucial to understand that you don’t always get a rash with meningitis. According to the charity Meningitis Now, this is just one of several misconceptions surrounding the condition, reports the Mirror.
In an Instagram post published in January, the UK charity outlined five ‘myths’ the public shouldn’t fall for. Meningitis Now explained: « Myth: Meningitis only affects babies. Fact: Meningitis can affect anyone at any age. »
Addressing the second ‘myth’, the charity clarified that a rash doesn’t always develop and encouraged people to seek medical attention immediately if meningitis is suspected. The post said: « Myth: You always get a rash with meningitis. Fact: A rash doesn’t always appear. It can be one of the last symptoms if it appears at all. Do not wait for a rash if you suspect meningitis. «
Meningitis Now continued: « Myth: Viral meningitis is quick to recover from. Fact: Although most people will make a full recovery, the recovery process can be slow. Some can be left with life-changing after-effects. »
The next slide discussed vaccines. The charity said: « Myth: Vaccines protect against all meningitis types. Fact: Vaccines are available to prevent some types of meningitis, and most of these are available as part of the UK routine immunisation schedule. However, not all types of meningitis can be prevented by these vaccines. »
Lastly, Meningitis Now clarified that there isn’t only one type of meningitis. The post explained: « Myth: There is only one type of meningitis. Fact: Many different viruses, bacteria, and fungi can cause meningitis. Other causes of meningitis include some medicines or brain tumours. »
More information is available on the Meningitis Now website. A message on the charity’s homepage reads: « We are deeply saddened to hear about the deaths following the reported meningitis outbreak in Kent. We encourage everyone to ensure they and their families are up to date with vaccinations and to be aware of the signs and symptoms. »
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