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New NHS 'high Risk' Warning Over Life-threatening Infection
Meningitis can become very serious and is fatal in some cases, with permanent damage being caused to some who survive Nausea is one of the main symptoms (Image: Getty)
A fresh warning was issued on Tuesday afternoon as the NHS warned people about an infection that is fatal in around one in 10 cases. It particularly said that young people and teenagers were at "high risk".
The infection in question is meningitis, with the health service urging people to speak to their GP if their vaccinations are not up to date. It added that meningitis can cause permanent damage.
In a post on X on Tuesday, the NHS said: "Meningitis can be life-threatening and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves. Speak to your GP if you're not sure whether you or your child's vaccinations are up to date."
In its explanation about meningitis online, it adds: "Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges). It can affect anyone, but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults.
"Meningitis can be very serious if not treated quickly. It can cause life-threatening sepsis and result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves. A number of vaccinations are available that offer some protection against meningitis."
Symptoms of meningitisThe NHS says symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include:
These symptoms can appear in any order. You do not always get all the symptoms, the NHS said.
When to get medical help for meningitisThe NHS said: "Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E immediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis. Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly.
"Call NHS 111 for advice if you're not sure if it's anything serious or you think you may have been exposed to someone with meningitis. If you've had medical advice and are still worried or any symptoms get worse, get medical help again."
How meningitis is spreadMeningitis is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis.
Infections that cause meningitis can be spread through:
Meningitis is usually caught from people who carry these viruses or bacteria in their nose or throat but are not ill themselves. It can also be caught from someone with meningitis, but this is less common.
Headaches are another symptom (Image:
Pexels) Meningitis vaccinationsVaccinations offer some protection against certain causes of meningitis.
These include:
On its advice pages, the NHS says: "People with suspected meningitis will usually have tests in hospital to confirm the diagnosis and check whether the condition is the result of a viral or bacterial infection. Bacterial meningitis usually needs to be treated in hospital for at least a week.
Treatments include:
"Viral meningitis tends to get better on its own within seven to 10 days and can often be treated at home. Getting plenty of rest and taking painkillers and anti-sickness medication can help relieve the symptoms in the meantime."
Meningitis recovery and consequencesThe NHS says: "Viral meningitis will usually get better on its own and rarely causes any long-term problems. Most people with bacterial meningitis who are treated quickly will also make a full recovery, although some are left with serious long-term problems."
These can include:
Overall, it's estimated up to one in every 10 cases of bacterial meningitis is fatal, according to the health service.
Everything To Know About Mollaret's Meningitis
Mollaret's meningitis is a rare type of meningitis that causes recurring episodes of inflammation around the brain and spinal cord.
Mollaret's meningitis is a rare and chronic form of aseptic (nonbacterial) meningitis, involving recurrent episodes of meningitis-like symptoms, including severe headaches, fever, and neck stiffness. Its other names include benign recurrent lymphocytic meningitis and idiopathic recurrent meningitis.
Unlike bacterial meningitis, this condition does not result from bacteria but rather from viral infections, particularly herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). HSV-2 is commonly known for causing genital herpes. In rare cases, it can also lead to recurrent meningitis, where the virus affects the meninges — the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord.
While these episodes can be severe, they typically resolve independently after a few days with supportive care. However, doctors may opt to prescribe antiretroviral treatments.
This article covers Mollaret's meningitis, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Mollaret's meningitis is a rare form of aseptic, recurrent meningitis primarily linked to viral infections, particularly HSV-2. It was first described by Dr. Pierre Mollaret in 1944.
The condition occurs when the virus directly infects the central nervous system and remains dormant for extended periods without causing symptoms. When the infection reactivates, it triggers recurrent episodes of meningitis-like symptoms.
Approximately 1 in 5 people who develop HSV-2 meningitis experience recurrences. When symptoms occur more than three times, the condition is Mollaret's meningitis.
Unlike bacterial meningitis, which requires antibiotics, Mollaret's meningitis usually resolves independently and is not life threatening. However, the condition's recurrent nature can lead to significant discomfort, even though it does not typically cause long-term damage.
Mollaret's meningitis most commonly results from viral infections with HSV-2, although other viral agents such as HSV-1 and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may also contribute. The virus can remain dormant in the body and reactivate intermittently, causing recurrent episodes of inflammation in the meninges.
Other potential triggers include intracranial cystic anomalies. These fluid-filled sacs develop within the brain or skull due to congenital conditions, infections, or trauma. They may release irritant material into the meninges and provoke a hypersensitivity reaction. Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may also have this effect.
Additionally, immune system deficiencies may predispose individuals to recurrent viral infections, leading to meningitis. Certain autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, also link to Mollaret's meningitis. However, Mollaret's meningitis is idiopathic, meaning its cause remains unknown.
Treatment for Mollaret's meningitis depends on the underlying cause, the symptoms' severity, and the recurrence frequency.
Healthcare professionals may prescribe antiviral medications, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, to suppress herpes virus activity. These medications can reduce the frequency and severity of attacks in patients with HSV-related Mollaret's meningitis.
In other cases, treatment focuses on symptom management, using pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and fluids to alleviate headaches, fever, and discomfort.
Hospitalization may be necessary if symptoms are severe or there is concern about the possibility of bacterial meningitis.
There is no guaranteed method to prevent Mollaret's meningitis entirely, but reducing the risk of viral infections, particularly HSV, could help. That said, only a small proportion of those with HSV-2 will develop Mollaret's meningitis.
Practicing good hygiene, avoiding contact with individuals experiencing active herpes lesions, and managing immune health may lower the risk of triggering an episode.
In some cases, doctors may recommend suppressive viral therapy with acyclovir to prevent recurrences.
Mollaret's meningitis is a rare and recurrent form of viral meningitis that can cause significant discomfort through repeated episodes of headache, fever, and neck stiffness. Although the condition is not life threatening, it can affect a person's quality of life.
Timely diagnosis, treatment with antivirals, and symptom management can help people manage the condition and may reduce the frequency of attacks.
Individuals with meningitis symptoms should consult a healthcare professional to explore treatment options and rule out serious causes.
What Is Spinal Meningitis?
Spinal meningitis is a potentially life-threatening condition. It occurs when an infection causes inflammation of the membranes (meninges) that surround your brain and spinal cord. Spinal meningitis can be caused by a bacterium, fungus, or virus.
Symptoms alone will not tell you what type you have. It's crucial to get medical attention immediately to identify what type of meningitis you have and get treatment. You may be able to recover from some types of spinal meningitis at home. However, bacterial spinal meningitis may become fatal in mere hours if untreated.
Dean Mitchell / Getty Images
People often get spinal meningitis from specific pathogens, like bacteria or viruses. In some cases, non-infectious illness results from a head injury, brain surgery, certain illnesses, or drugs. Each causes a certain type of spinal meningitis, including: Amebic: This is a very rare type of spinal meningitis from amoebae in soil and warm water. You might be infected if you swim in contaminated water. Bacterial: This is a severe illness that can turn deadly quickly. Bacterial spinal meningitis happens if bacteria spread through the bloodstream to the brain or enter the meninges directly. Fungal: Breathing in certain fungal spores might cause this rare spinal meningitis. Some of those fungi, such as Blastomyces and Histoplasma, live in soil in parts of the United States. Non-Infectious: This occurs due to a head injury, brain surgery, illness, or medication. Your body reacts to the non-infectious cause by creating inflammation in the lining of your brain and spinal fluid. Parasitic: Although rare, you might contract a parasite by eating contaminated food. For example, eating raw or undercooked freshwater fish may expose you to Gnathostoma spinigerum parasites. Viral: This is the most common cause of spinal meningitis. Viruses that may cause spinal meningitis typically include herpes simplex virus (HSV), influenza virus, and non-polio enteroviruses. Symptoms are typically the same regardless of what type of spinal meningitis you have. You might have flu-like symptoms, such as a fever and generally feeling unwell, which last one to two days. Spinal meningitis symptoms worsen with inflammation and may include: A sudden fever Double vision Feeling confused or irritable Light sensitivity Nausea Seizures Severe headache Skin rash Stiff neck Vomiting "These are symptoms of brain inflammation, not specific to certain germs, whether viral or bacterial," Frank Esper, MD, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the Cleveland Clinic, told Health. "So, if you have any of these symptoms, that's when we say we're worried about meningitis." Symptoms may look different in infants. Seek immediate medical attention if an infant develops symptoms that might indicate spinal meningitis. Those symptoms include: A fever or temperature that's lower than usual Bulging in the soft spot of the head Constant crying that may be high-pitched or worsen when held Decreased alertness Excessive sleepiness or trouble waking up Irritability Poor appetite or feeding Rapid breathing Stiff neck and body Unusual posture, with their head or neck arched backward Vomiting Infectious spinal meningitis happens if a pathogen—amoeba, bacterium, fungus, parasite, or virus—enters your body and goes to your brain. Your immune system detects the pathogen in your brain. As a result, the meninges, or the thin membranes that protect your brain and spinal cord, become inflamed. Non-infectious causes of spinal meningitis include: Autoimmune diseases: These occur when the body's immune system targets and attacks its healthy cells. It is important to rule out autoimmune diseases when a patient presents with persistent meningitis symptoms. Although rare (less than 2%), meningitis can be an early sign of lupus, which affects healthy cells in the brain and spinal cord. Brain surgery: This might occur due to a bacterial infection, an inflammatory reaction to the surgery, or certain medications. Cancer: Spinal meningitis might occur with advanced cancers that have spread to the brain and spinal cord. Certain medications: Although rare, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen might cause spinal meningitis. Some evidence suggests that spinal meningitis is a rare side effect of some antibiotics. Head injuries: Inflammation of your brain and spinal cord may result from head trauma. Spinal meningitis is a severe infection that can happen to anyone. People with a weak immune system have a higher risk of spinal meningitis from any cause. Certain illnesses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and medications might suppress the immune system. Infants also have a higher risk of spinal meningitis than others. Other factors that increase the risk of spinal meningitis include: Coming into contact with contaminated bird droppings and dirt Gathering in large groups (e.G., college students on campus) Not staying up-to-date with routine vaccines Recently traveling to places with high rates of spinal meningitis, such as sub-Saharan Africa and Mecca Swimming in contaminated water Working with bacteria (e.G., microbiologists) Your symptoms will not tell you what type of spinal meningitis you have, so it's essential to get medical attention right away. A healthcare provider will ask questions about your health history and symptoms. Then, they will likely perform a physical exam, checking your balance, hearing, speech, and vision. Based on your symptoms, a healthcare provider will administer diagnostic tests like: Blood culture: Checks for pathogens like bacteria in your blood Chest X-ray: Looks for signs of an infection CT scan: Takes X-ray pictures of the inside of your head, which may show inflammation of the brain Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): Collects cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which protects your brain and spinal cord, to check for inflammation The goal of treatment is to eliminate the pathogen and reduce inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Treatments vary depending on the type of illness. For example, most people with viral spinal meningitis recover at home by drinking plenty of fluids and taking pain relievers. Parasitic and non-infectious spinal meningitis also involve supportive care. In contrast, bacterial spinal meningitis can progress rapidly and become fatal if untreated. Since symptoms of bacterial meningitis are not dissimilar to all other causes of meningitis, early intervention is crucial, and antibiotics may be administered before diagnosis is confirmed. Once the specific pathogen is identified, treatment will be tailored accordingly. Treatments typically include intravenous (IV) antibiotics and fluids. Of note: Antibiotics will not work for viral spinal meningitis. You might require anticonvulsants to prevent seizures or steroids to get rid of inflammation. Fungal spinal meningitis requires antifungal medications. Staying up-to-date with routine vaccines is one of the best ways to prevent spinal meningitis. Certain vaccines, such as the Hib, measles, mumps, pneumococcal, and polio vaccines, may prevent bacterial spinal meningitis. Children aged 11 to 12 often receive a meningococcal conjugate vaccine, followed by a booster at age 16. Keep in mind: No vaccine is 100% effective. It's essential that you seek care medical attention right away if you have spinal meningitis symptoms, regardless of your vaccination status. Other ways to prevent spinal meningitis include avoiding close contact with people who are sick and regularly washing your hands. A healthcare provider might advise antibiotics if you recently had contact with someone with bacterial spinal meningitis. Complications are likelier to result from bacterial spinal meningitis than other types. Some people need further treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) if their blood pressure is dangerously low. Low blood pressure might cause shock, damaging the adrenal glands and kidneys. Others might require a breathing machine (ventilator) if they need help breathing. Neurological problems that might result from inflammation of the brain and spinal cord include: Hearing loss Learning disabilities Seizures Vision changes Spinal meningitis is a potentially severe infection that happens if your brain and spinal cord become inflamed. Viruses are the most common cause, and those cases typically resolve at home without treatment. In contrast, bacterial spinal meningitis can be fatal within hours if left untreated. It's not possible to tell what type of spinal meningitis you have by symptoms alone. This is why it's vital to seek immediate medical attention if you have a sudden fever, sensitivity to light, severe headache, and stiff neck. You can prevent some types of spinal meningitis with good hand hygiene and getting recommended vaccines.Thanks for your feedback!
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