What is meningitis?
Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Some bacteria that cause meningitis can also cause septicaemia* (blood poisoning)
Key facts about meningitis
- Meningitis can affect anyone of any age
- Meningitis can kill
- Meningitis can cause long-term after-effects
- Viral and bacterial are the most common causes of meningitis
- No vaccine provides 100% protection against meningitis
- Early signs and symptoms can appear similar to 'flu' or a stomach bug
Find out more about meningitis
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Signs and symptoms of meningitis
Knowing the signs & symptoms of meningitis can save a life, check them now
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What vaccines are available?
Effective vaccines are available to prevent some types of meningitis and septicaemia, but not all
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Types & Causes of meningitis
Meningitis is usually caused by viruses or bacteria. Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis, followed by bacterial meningitis, find out more
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How to catch meningitis
It is very rare for someone to ‘catch’ meningitis from someone who is already ill, as most cases occur in isolation, read our FAQs
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Treatment of meningitis and septicaemia
Someone with suspected meningitis will usually need to have tests in hospital and may need to be admitted for treatment. Find out more about how meningitis is treated
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After-effects of meningitis
Whatever the outcome of meningitis, the impact of the disease can be life-changing – from grieving for a loved one, to coping with lifelong after-effects
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After-effects of septicaemia
Read our comprehensive information and download facts sheets relating to the many things you may encounter post septicaemia
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Download meningitis leaflets, posters and far more
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Research
Over the past 30+ years we have funded more than £12.6 million of vital research through the Spencer Dayman Research Fund