Bacteria and viruses are not the only cause of Meningitis, but are the main causes in the UK. Any germ is capable of causing Meningitis. Viral Meningitis is more common than the bacterial form but generally less serious, although it can be debilibating. It can be caused by many different viruses. Some are spread between people coughing and sneezing or through poor hygiene. Other viruses can be found in sewage polluted water.

Bacterial Meningitis is not common but needs urgent medical treatment. It is predominantly caused by meningococci bacteria but can be caused by other bacteria such as pneumococcal and Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b).

What is Meningococcal Septicaemia?

Septicaemia is blood poisoning which is caused by the bacteria entering the bloodstream and multiplying uncontrollably.

Septicaemia can develop quickly. A rash can appear under the skin. This can start a cluster of tiny blood spots, which can look like pin pricks in the skin. If untreated, they get bigger and become larger areas of obvious bleeding under the skin. The rash can appear anywhere on the body and it could be more difficult to see the rash if you have darker skin. The spots or bruises do not fade when pressed. Septicaemia rash should be taken very seriously and medical treatment should be sought immediately. Do not wait for a rash, some times it may be the last symptom to appear. (see glass test picture)

How easy is it to catch bacterial Meningitis?

The bacteria which cause most of the reported bacterial cases are Meningococcal. The bacterial live naturally in the back of the nose and throat or upper respiratory tract.

People of any age can carry the germs for days, weeks or months without becoming ill.

In fact being a carrier helps to boost natural immunity. At any one time, around 10 - 25% of the population are carriers. Only rarely do the bacteria overcome the bodies defences and cause Meningitis.

Although the bacteria are spread through the respiratory route (coughs and sneezes) the bacteria does not live outside the body. Prolonged close / intimate contact with an infested person who is either ill or a carrier is required to transmit the germ. Because the bacteria do not live outside the body you cannot pick them up from water supplies, swimming pools or buildings. Residential accommodation (such as colleges, halls of residence or military barracks and schools) are places where the opportunity for the spread of germs can occur and where clusters of infection are sometimes seen.