14/10/2026
MENINGITIS – KNOW THE SIGNS, SAVE LIVES 🩺💙
We’re raising awareness of meningitis and the importance of recognising the symptoms early.
🦠 What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can develop quickly and cause serious illness. Meningococcal bacteria can also cause septicaemia (blood poisoning).
🚨 KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS
Symptoms can include: A high temperature, severe headache, stiff neck, vomiting, confusion and being very sleepy or difficult to wake
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Not everyone develops a rash, so do not wait for one to appear.
If you suspect meningitis or someone is becoming seriously unwell, seek urgent medical help immediately. Call 999 if you think it could be meningitis or there are signs of serious illness. Do not wait for all the symptoms to develop.
MENB VACCINATION – PROTECTION MATTERS 💉
The MenB vaccine helps protect against meningococcal group B bacteria, which can cause meningitis and septicaemia.
👶 MenB vaccination is routinely offered to babies from 8 weeks of age.
🎓 A time-limited NHS MenB vaccination programme is also available to eligible young people, including those born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, and certain under-25s starting university or eligible residential further education for the first time in autumn 2026.
📲 Check eligibility and booking information here:
➡️ https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-a-menb-vaccination-appointment/
💙 As your local community pharmacy, we encourage everyone to learn the symptoms, check their vaccination status and share this potentially lifesaving information with family and friends.