What are the symptoms of meningitis and how is it spread?

What are the symptoms of meningitis and how is it spread?Image source, ReutersImage caption, An emergency vaccination programme followed an outbreak in KentByMichelle RobertsDigital health editorPublished16 March 2026Updated 12 June 2026A vaccination programme targeting one million teenagers and young adults is being launched, after concerns about the number of meningitis B infections.Officials say the programme will help protect those at "highest immediate risk".Meningococcal disease can lead to life-threatening illness.Teenager's family 'heartbroken' by meningitis deathPublished15 MayMeningitis B vaccine to be offered to a million young people Published12 JuneWhat are meningitis and 'invasive' meningitis?Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord.It can affect anyone but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. It can be very serious if not treated quickly.The cause of the infection - either certain bacteria or viruses - can be determined by tests. Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis. It can lead to blood poisoning or sepsis, and can affect the brain. This acute, severe infection is known as invasive meningitis. It means the infection has invaded the blood stream or brain linings.Meningitis B, or MenB, is behind most cases of more severe meningococcal disease in the UK. Cases happen every year - in 2024-2025, there were 378 cases of invasive meningococcal disease, according to official data.NHS: MeningitisWhat meningitis signs should you look out for?Symptoms can develop suddenly and can include:a rash that doesn't fade when pressed with a glasssudden onset of high feversevere and worsening headachestiff neckvomiting and diarrhoeajoint and muscle paindislike of bright lightsvery cold hands and feetseizuresconfusion/deliriumextreme sleepiness/difficulty wakingWhat meningitis vaccines are available, and who can get...