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Don¡¦t Be Rash ¡V Is Meningitis Still an Issue?

We have all heard the meningitis horror stories, but are they really worth listening to. The question is really, are they worth ignoring? Well, you¡¦ve probably guessed that the answer is no. Approximately, five hundred young adults in the UK have contract meningitis or septicaemia each year. Meningitis can kill in hours and the early symptoms are easily confused will common illnesses, most markedly flu and a hangover. Most stories are highlighted in the Freshers¡¦ Week period and just after, as this is when students from all over the world come into close contact in cramped conditions. If a resistance has built up in an area this will be lost when students come together.

One in ten of us, at any time, are carrying the bacteria which causes meningitis and they are passed by regular close contact, such as kissing. In the vast majority of us, these bacteria aren¡¦t a problem ¡V they don¡¦t make us ill. It¡¦s in the minority that the bacteria get into the bloodstream and cause meningitis or septicaemia. The problem is that we there¡¦s no way to know who is at risk. This is why it is essential to know the symptoms. These include vomiting, headaches, light aversions, drowsiness, joint pains, fits, fever and a stiff neck. These symptoms may not occur at the same time.

It is well known that Meningitis and septicaemia can kill in hours. So what is it?

Meningitis is the inflammation of the linings of the brain and spinal cord, whilst septicaemia is the blood poisoning form of the disease. The two forms of the disease have different symptoms. People who recover from meningitis and septicaemia may be left with a range of after effects that dramatically alter their lives.

So what can be done about this illness? There is no vaccine which can prevent all forms of meningitis and septicaemia. However, a UK wide vaccination programme to prevent Group C meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia started in November 1999. Most new students should have received this or the older vaccine which protects against groups A and C. If you are a first year who has not yet received this vaccine then enquire with your GP on registration and ensure you obtain the vaccination without delay. First year international students who may not have had the vaccine prior to arrival, should arrange this with their GP on registration.

Exceptional cases who experience difficulties in obtaining the vaccine from a GP can contact the Student Health Centre 0161 275 2858 and is located on 182-184 Oxford Road for further advice. As non-first year students are considered to be at less of a risk of developing meningitis or septicaemia there is no government provision for them. However, as mentioned before, you can enquire of your GP and/or Call NHS Direct on their 24hour phone line 0845 46 47 48 if you and/or your friends display any symptoms of meningitis.

The important message to remember is that whilst there are vaccines against meningitis, they don¡¦t provide you with full protection. It is essential that you know the signs and act quickly. Also, it is important to note that not all the symptoms are always present.

For more information please refer to www.meningitis.org and also www.meningitis-trust.org.uk. Alternatively, contact Jennie Bailey, Welfare Officer in the Students Union or the University¡¦s Student Health Service.

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