Jordan Brook, star of The Only Way Is Essex, has revealed he has been diagnosed with viral meningitis and encephalitis, causing swelling on his brain. The 31-year-old, who is expecting his first child with Sophie Kasaei, shared the update in a candid video from his hospital bed on Instagram.
In the video, Brook explained that he has undergone CT scans, MRI scans, and lumbar punctures, and is receiving round-the-clock care, including IV drips, antiviral medication, pain management, physiotherapy, and seizure monitoring. He stated that the swelling on his brain is worsening despite treatment.
Brook urged his followers to ignore online speculation about his health, noting that some comments have suggested he is much worse than he is. He said: 'This isn't something small or minor. I've got viral meningitis and encephalitis mixed together, which has caused severe inflammation and swelling on my brain.'
According to the NHS, meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, while encephalitis is an uncommon but serious condition involving brain inflammation. Both can be life-threatening and require urgent hospital treatment.
Brook expressed his determination to recover for his partner and their unborn son, saying: 'My focus right now is simple: I need to get healthy. My Sophie's been amazing and she's growing my precious baby boy. I just want to be a young, healthy dad, home for my family, with my baby – that's the goal. This won't beat me.'
