Meningitis in adults

Meningitis can strike at any time, regardless of health, gender, age, race or class.
People over 55 are at risk of meningitis as our immune systems weaken as we get older.
10% of cases of meningitis will result in death
Adults can still suffer the same after-effects from meningitis as children such as brain damage, hearing and sight loss, and where septicaemia (blood poisoning) has occurred, loss of limbs and scarring.
A survey has shown that one in four adults in the UK knows of someone who has had meningitis.

As our immune system weakens as we get older, we are more susceptible to illnesses such as meningitis.

A pneumococcal vaccine is offered to all over 65s in the UK. If you have not been offered this vaccine, you can ask for it at your GP surgery or Health Centre.
Look out for yourself and others. In the early stages, meningitis symptoms can disguise themselves as a common cold or flu, so it’s important to remain vigilant to the symptoms, trust your instincts and seek medical help if concerned.
If you live on your own, always make sure you tell someone if you are not feeling well. They can check up on you and take action if needed.

Are you worried that you or someone else may have meningitis? If so, get urgent medical attention immediately.

Trust your instincts. You know your loved ones, or your own body, best. Describe the symptoms and say you think it could be meningitis or septicaemia.
Early diagnosis can be difficult. If you have had advice and are still worried, get medical help again.
If you are worried about the symptoms of meningitis and spotting them in time, let us help you with our free symptoms card. We also have new iPhone and Android applications for you to download on the symptoms.