Meningitis
Meningococcal meningitis/septicaemia is an uncommon illness, but it can be serious.
University students are at higher risk of infection due to mixing closely with lots of new people – some may unknowingly carry the meningococcal bacteria.
Meningitis can make you ill fast so it’s important to know the early signs of infection.
Meningitis symptoms
Symptoms include:
- severe headache
- high temperature/fever
- vomiting
- stiff neck
- aching limbs or joints
- discomfort with bright light (photophobia)
- drowsiness or confusion
- muscle pains, especially in the legs
- fine purple rash, which does not fade when pressed with a glass.
Not all these symptoms will be present in all cases.
What to do if you have meningitis symptoms
Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest Accident and emergency (A&E) immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis.
Meningitis vaccinations
Check your vaccinations are up to date.
Free meningitis vaccines (MenACWY) are available for people up to age 25.
The MenACWY vaccine protects against four types of bacteria that can cause meningitis (A, C, W, and Y).
Many school pupils in the UK have the meningitis vaccine between the ages of 13 to 15. If you had the vaccine at school, you won’t need to get it again.
If you have not had a meningitis vaccination before coming to Leeds, make an appointment with your doctor to arrange this as soon as possible.
The MenACWY vaccine does not protect against all types of meningitis‑causing bacteria, including group B (MenB). This is why it’s important to know the symptoms of meningitis, as getting treatment early can save lives.
Register with a doctor
If you haven’t already registered with a doctor, read our register with a doctor page for details of how to do this.
For the latest updates about meningitis, check the UK Health Security Agency information.