meningitis

Transmission - airborne, via respiratory droplets.

Disease - a bacterial infection affecting the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It can also present an infection of the blood stream and major organs (septicaemia).

Symptoms - fever with headaches, neck stiffness, photophobia, blotchy rash.

Treatment - specialised medical treatment needed.

Prevention - immunisation. Avoiding crowded areas or contact with infected persons.

Vaccine - Meningitis C is given for those living in the UK. For travel, other strains are more common. The combined A and C vaccine is most commonly given. For religious pilgrims to Mecca, a four-strain vaccination certificate is required covering A, C, W135 and Y. This situation is subject to change as the strains that predominate may change. Vaccination should be taken at least two weeks prior to travel.