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Meningitis and sepsis

Meningitis

Meningitis and sepsis are serious conditions that can develop quickly and become life-threatening without early treatment. Although rare, recognising the symptoms and acting fast can make a crucial difference.

This section brings together clear, trusted information on symptoms, causes, treatment and prevention, including vaccination and what to do if you are concerned.

Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light and confusion. It can worsen quickly, so urgent medical help is essential.

A stethoscope with a small model of a human brain attached to its tubing, symbolising neurology.

Infections

Meningitis

by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP

Infections

What to do if you think you’ve been exposed to meningitis

by Thomas Andrew Porteus, MBCS

Hands holding human head with brain as pain red circle on purple background. Concept of headache, stroke disease, migraine, epilepsy, meningitis, brain tumor and dementia. Mental health.

Infections

Meningitis symptoms students should know: recognising the warning signs early

by Thomas Andrew Porteus, MBCS

Checklist

Infections

Meningitis symptoms checklist

by Dr Mary Harding, MRCGP

Sepsis

Sepsis is a life-threatening reaction to infection that can damage the body’s organs. Symptoms may include confusion, rapid breathing, severe pain and extreme drowsiness. Early treatment is critical.

Red illuminated EMERGENCY sign at hospital entrance with glass-fronted building above against twilight sky.

Infections

Sepsis

by Dr Colin Tidy, MRCGP

Young child in blue shirt with digital thermometer in mouth against light blue background, looking unwell.

Infections

Symptoms of sepsis in children

by Dr Krishna Vakharia, MRCGP

Sepsis warning signs you need to know

Infections

Sepsis warning signs you need to know

by Victoria Raw

Elderly patient with white beard in blue hospital gown resting on white pillows as caregiver places comforting hand on shoulder.

Infections

Symptoms of sepsis in adults

by Dr Krishna Vakharia, MRCGP

Vaccinations

Vaccines such as MenACWY and MenB help protect against some causes of meningitis and sepsis. However, they do not cover all strains, so knowing the symptoms remains important.

Medical syringe with needle and vaccine vial with blank white label against light blue background.

Infections

Meningococcal vaccine for meningitis

by Dr Toni Hazell, FRCGP

Student with short dark hair and a yellow t-shirt with a plaster on her arm, smiling against a turquoise background.

Infections

How universities promote meningitis vaccinations

by Dr Jennifer Kelly, MRCGP

Medical syringe and two small glass vials with blank white labels arranged on a light blue background.

Infections

Do you need the meningitis vaccine?

by Danny Chadburn

Infections

Private MenB vaccination: who might consider it and how it works

by Thomas Andrew Porteus, MBCS