Meningitis - the facts and symptoms

Microscopic image of bacteria Credit: ITV West Country

Around 3,400 people across the UK contract bacterial meningitis and septicaemia each year. Of those 1 in 10 will die, and 1 in 4 will be left with some form of after-effect.

Children, young people and the elderly are most at risk from the disease.

Classic symptoms of meningitis include :

  • Headache

  • Stiff neck

  • Dislike of bright light

Other symptoms to look out for in babies include :

  • High pitched cry

  • Blotchy or pale skin

  • Tense of bulging soft spot (fontanelle) on the baby's head

Meningitis is usually caused by either a virus or bacteria. Bacterial is the most serious type. Someone suffering from bacterial meningitis needs to be treated with antibiotics immediately.

Click here for more information on the disease, meningitis research and advice.