• Ensure those that matter to you are vaccinated
  The best way to prevent meningitis is through vaccination. Vaccines are available in the UK and Ireland to protect against some of the major causes of meningitis and septicaemia, including meningococcal and pneumococcal vaccines.
• Be aware of the symptoms
  There are not yet vaccines available to protect against every type of bacterial meningitis, and protection is not lifelong. So, it is important to be able to spot the signs and symptoms and remain vigilant.
  The early symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia can be the same as many other common illnesses, like cold, flu and even COVID, so it is important to watch out for any signs of deterioration to a person’s health. Always trust your instincts and get medical help if you are still concerned, no matter how long it has been since you or your child last saw a medical professional.

It is important to remember, meningitis is more than just a rash – which doesn’t always appear. Symptoms can develop in any order and not everyone gets all of them.

If in doubt, get professional medical advice and say you suspect meningitis.

It could save someone’s life.

• Symptoms in babies
• Symptoms in toddlers
• Symptoms in young adults