Meningococcal disease

It’s important to be aware of meningococcal disease, especially if you’re living in halls of residence, hostel accommodation or flats.

Meningococcal disease is a serious infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. It can cause meningitis (inflammation of the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord) or septicaemia (a severe infection of the bloodstream). The symptoms can develop very quickly and can lead to death in under 12 hours. It is important to get medical attention as soon as possible. Meningococcal disease can be treated with a number of effective antibiotics, and it is important that treatment be started as soon as possible.

If you suspect you have meningococcal disease, you must seek immediate medical attention or call 111.

Meningococcal bacteria are commonly carried in the nose and throat, and do not usually cause disease.

The bacteria can be transferred from person to person through contact with saliva, including:

• Intimate kissing
• Shared drink bottles
• Coughing, sneezing or laughing.

The initial symptoms are difficult to distinguish from other infectious illnesses, eg, influenza. Almost 80% of cases will develop a rash that does not blanch (become pale/go white) when pressed on. This type of rash is often a late sign of infection.

If you experience any of the symptoms below, you must contact your doctor immediately:

• Fever
• Malaise
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Muscle aches and pains
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Dislike of bright light
• Neck stiffness
• Rash or spots

There are two vaccines brands currently available to help cover this form of meningitis. You can discuss the best option for you with your doctor or nurse.

At University Health and Counselling Services, we offer the following options:

Menquad V: this covers the widest range of meningococcal groups (A, C, Y and W) and is also recommended for travel.

Note: this vaccine is free for domestic students aged 18-25 years old, who are living in a first year Hall of Residence. It should be received at least one month before starting University.

Bexsero: this protects against meningococcal B and is given via two injections, at least one month apart.

Note: this vaccine is free for domestic students aged 18-25 years old, who are living in a first year Hall of Residence. It should be received at least one month before starting University.

• Students entering or living in hostel-type accommodation, eg. University Halls of residence
• Those with medical conditions affecting their immune response, eg. sickle cell anaemia, HIV infection
• Close contacts of a known case of meningococcal disease
• Travellers to sub-saharan Africa
• Military recruits
• Hajj pilgrims

Vaccines are available to all enrolled patients of University Health and Counselling Services. Some meningococcal vaccines are funded (as outlined above) or available at a cost if you don't meet the criteria for funding. Please enquire for costs using the contact details below.