1. Ekamroop Takhar, Arundeep Bharj
Meningitis
Ekamroop Takhar, Arundeep Bharj

2. Meningitis
The inflammation of the protective membranes on the brain and spinal cord
Can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and other microbes
Viral meningitis - around 97% of people affected suffer from after effects

4. Bacterial meningitis
About 10% people affected die from the disease. The people who survive would be likely to experience long-term disabilities
25% of people carry the disease-causing bacteria in their nose or throat
The bacteria is spread through direct exchange of respiratory secretions
Coughing
Sharing drinks
Kissing

6. Mechanism of Meningitis
The bacteria can already be inhabiting the sinuses, nose, or throat
Surgery or trauma can provide the bacteria access to the meninges
Bacteria can also break through the mucous membranes
It then enters the bloodstream, and travels to the cerebrospinal fluid
An immune response to the bacteria, causes the meninges to swell

7. Classic Symptoms of Meningitis
Septicaemia
Meningitis
Red ticks indicate symptoms which are more specific to meningitis, as opposed to milder illnesses

8. Symptoms
Meningitis can also occur without the display of any of these classic symptoms
Most common example being the rash which many people associate with the disease, which is often a late symptom, and sometimes doesn't display at all
Meningitis can cause death, with no symptoms at all
Due to different strains of the disease

9. Vaccinations for Meningitis
5 bacteria groups that commonly cause the disease - A, B, C, W, Y
UK - Meningitis ‘B’ causes the most disease - added to the childhood immunisation programme
Meningitis ‘W’ - does not necessarily show classic symptoms of meningitis
University students and children under 5 the group of people most likely to be affected by meningitis

10. Meningitis ACWY Vaccination

12. Treatment of Meningitis
Must be treated as soon as possible - bacterial meningitis can cause brain damage within a few hours
Patients need to by hydrated, given painkillers and allowed to rest
1 in 3 people who survive bacterial meningitis left with after effects - brain damage, sight loss, potential loss of limbs

13. Meningitis Research Foundation
Helps to overcome funding problems, that may prevent people affording the required vaccine
Lack of what is viewed as cost effective treatment, has also prevented the UK government from implementing certain vaccinations
Introduced Meningitis ACWY to year 9 and 10 pupils, due to the recognition of strand W as being a recent threat
Deaths of newborns, from meningitis still high

14. Meningitis Research Foundation Charity Event
£1 for 2 wet tennis balls
£1 for 30 seconds with a water gun
50p for 2 sponges
£5 for a bucket
Top Field

15. Meningitis Links