A student has tragically died following a meningitis outbreak in Reading, with two other young people currently receiving treatment. One of the cases has been confirmed as meningitis B (MenB), the same strain responsible for several fatal cases in Kent earlier this year.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, typically caused by bacterial or viral infection. Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis. It can affect anyone but is more common in babies, children, teenagers, and young adults. Without prompt treatment, meningitis can lead to life-threatening sepsis and permanent brain or nerve damage.
How Does Meningitis B Differ?
One of the bacteria causing meningitis is meningococcus, which can live harmlessly in people's throats but can cause serious illness if it enters the blood or spinal fluid. The most common type is type B, known as meningitis B or MenB. According to Meningitis Now, MenB is one of the most common causes of meningitis in the UK.
Symptoms of Meningitis
Symptoms of meningitis and sepsis can include:
- High temperature
- Cold hands and feet
- Vomiting
- Confusion
- Muscle and joint pain
- Pale, mottled, or blotchy skin
- Spots or a rash
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Aversion to bright lights
- Being very sleepy
- Seizures
Symptoms can appear in any order, and some may not appear at all.
Is There a Vaccine?
Multiple meningitis vaccines are available in the UK. However, most people born before 2015 are not protected against meningitis B unless vaccinated privately. The MenB jab was introduced on the NHS for babies in 2015, with doses at eight weeks, 12 weeks, and a booster at one year. Other routine childhood jabs, such as the 6-in-1 and pneumococcal vaccines, can also protect against meningitis. The MenACWY vaccine, a single dose protecting against four strains, was introduced in 2015 and is offered to teenagers in school and those entering university up to age 25.
Can Young People Get the MenB Jab?
Meningitis Now has called for teenagers and young people to be vaccinated against MenB on the NHS through its 'No Plan B for MenB' campaign. The charity urges jabs for those most at risk and a booster programme from 2030, and also wants MenB jabs available on the high street at a fair price. Privately, the jab costs around £110 per dose, with a minimum of two doses required.
Why Are Young People at Risk?
According to Meningitis Now, one in four 15- to 19-year-olds carry meningococcal bacteria in their throats, compared to one in ten of the general UK population. Carriers can pass the bacteria through coughing, sneezing, and kissing. Increased social interaction and cramped living conditions in universities and halls of residence facilitate transmission.
How Is Meningitis Treated?
The NHS recommends hospital treatment for all bacterial meningitis cases. Treatments include intravenous antibiotics and fluids, oxygen for breathing difficulties, and steroids to reduce brain swelling. Patients may stay in hospital for days or weeks. Mild viral meningitis usually resolves on its own within 7-10 days, but severe cases may also require hospital care.
