Ekamroop Takhar, Arundeep Bharj Meningitis Ekamroop Takhar, Arundeep Bharj

Meningitis The inflammation of the protective membranes on the brain and spinal cord Can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and other microbes Viral meningitis - around 97% of people affected suffer from after effects

Bacterial meningitis About 10% people affected die from the disease. The people who survive would be likely to experience long-term disabilities 25% of people carry the disease-causing bacteria in their nose or throat The bacteria is spread through direct exchange of respiratory secretions Coughing Sharing drinks Kissing

Mechanism of Meningitis The bacteria can already be inhabiting the sinuses, nose, or throat Surgery or trauma can provide the bacteria access to the meninges Bacteria can also break through the mucous membranes It then enters the bloodstream, and travels to the cerebrospinal fluid An immune response to the bacteria, causes the meninges to swell

Classic Symptoms of Meningitis Septicaemia Meningitis Red ticks indicate symptoms which are more specific to meningitis, as opposed to milder illnesses

Symptoms Meningitis can also occur without the display of any of these classic symptoms Most common example being the rash which many people associate with the disease, which is often a late symptom, and sometimes doesn't display at all Meningitis can cause death, with no symptoms at all Due to different strains of the disease

Vaccinations for Meningitis 5 bacteria groups that commonly cause the disease - A, B, C, W, Y UK - Meningitis ‘B’ causes the most disease - added to the childhood immunisation programme Meningitis ‘W’ - does not necessarily show classic symptoms of meningitis University students and children under 5 the group of people most likely to be affected by meningitis

Meningitis ACWY Vaccination

Treatment of Meningitis Must be treated as soon as possible - bacterial meningitis can cause brain damage within a few hours Patients need to by hydrated, given painkillers and allowed to rest 1 in 3 people who survive bacterial meningitis left with after effects - brain damage, sight loss, potential loss of limbs

Meningitis Research Foundation Helps to overcome funding problems, that may prevent people affording the required vaccine Lack of what is viewed as cost effective treatment, has also prevented the UK government from implementing certain vaccinations Introduced Meningitis ACWY to year 9 and 10 pupils, due to the recognition of strand W as being a recent threat Deaths of newborns, from meningitis still high

Meningitis Research Foundation Charity Event £1 for 2 wet tennis balls £1 for 30 seconds with a water gun 50p for 2 sponges £5 for a bucket Top Field

Meningitis Links www.meningitisnow.org/ www.meningitis.org/