What is meningitis and septicaemia?
Meningitis represents the swelling of the lining around the brain and spinal cord, while septicaemia is blood poisoning caused by the same germs. A person is at risk of contracting both diseases together, or separately.
What symptoms should I be wary of?
The first symptoms usually present themselves as a fever, nausea, headache, and general aches and pains. Soon after, a rash may appear alongside a stiff neck, confusion, and stress towards bright lights. Not everyone will get all of the symptoms and they can appear in any order – if you’re worried and unsure, please call 111.
What is the MenACWY (Nimenrix) vaccine?
This specific type of vaccine is given by a single injection into the upper arm. The MenACWY (Nimenrix) protects against the four strains of meningococcal bacteria – A, C, W, and Y – which cause meningitis and septicaemia.
Who should be vaccinated?
The MenACWY (Nimenrix) vaccine is currently recommended for teenagers and young adults, as they are more likely to be carriers of the bacteria.
As meningitis can affect any one of any age, however, it’s important that you look into getting yourself or a loved one vaccinated if you haven’t been already. We’d be more than happy to talk you through this if you’re unsure, so get in contact with Whickham Pharmacy today.
