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The symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include:
Babies and children under 5 years may also:
Some of the early symptoms of meningitis can be similar to flu, a stomach bug or a hangover.
Not everyone with meningitis gets spots or a rash, but it's important to know what to look for.
You need to get medical help immediately if you think you or your child might have meningitis.
Do not drive yourself to A&E.
The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do.
A child or adult with meningitis might not have every symptom listed. Get immediate medical help if you or your child are unwell and you think there's something seriously wrong.
Meningitis can be caused by many different types of viruses or bacteria, which are spread through close contact with a person who has them. For example:
The infection is usually spread by people who carry these viruses or bacteria but are not ill themselves.
Although anyone can get it, meningitis is more common in:
It's possible to get meningitis more than once.
Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to protect you and your child against meningitis.
As part of the NHS vaccination schedule, children and teenagers are offered vaccines that protect against the main causes of meningitis, such as the MenB, MenACWY, pneumococcal, 6-in-1 and MMRV vaccines.
From 20 July 2026, the MenB vaccine will be offered to:
You'll be able to book an appointment online or go to a walk-in vaccination site and get vaccinated without an appointment.
If you're not sure whether your or your child's vaccinations are up to date you can:
The treatment for meningitis depends on whether it's caused by a bacterial or viral infection. You'll need some tests in hospital to find out what's causing it.
Viral meningitis tends to get better on its own within 7 to 10 days. It can often be treated at home with plenty of rest, painkillers and anti-sickness medicine.
Bacterial meningitis needs to be treated in hospital, usually for at least a week. Treatments may include:
Viral meningitis does not usually cause any long-term problems and most people make a full recovery.
Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious. It may cause long-term problems such as:
Bacterial meningitis can be fatal.
If you or your child have had meningitis, you may find it useful to get in touch with organisations who can provide further support and advice.
A charity providing information and support services for anyone affected by meningitis.
A charity providing information and support services for anyone affected by meningitis.
