Meningitis threat grows for children and teens, UK health officials warn
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London: The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a warning over a surge in meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia cases, particularly affecting children and young adults, including university students.
According to UKHSA data, 378 cases of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) were recorded in 2024–25, up from 340 the previous year. The MenB strain accounted for 90 per cent of infections in infants and all cases among 15- to 19-year-olds.
Health officials highlighted that university students are especially vulnerable due to close-contact environments and communal living. Falling vaccination rates among infants and teenagers have further increased the risk.
“These latest figures are a stark reminder meningitis remains a serious threat to children and young adults,” said Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton, urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated, Xinhua news agency reported. She stressed that timely immunisation “offers crucial protection against this devastating disease, which can take hold in a matter of hours.”
Meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. It can lead to severe complications or death if not treated promptly. Symptoms include high fever, vomiting, muscle pain, headache, stiff neck, light sensitivity, and a rash.
Authorities reiterated that vaccination remains the most effective defence against severe illness and mortality. Survivors of bacterial meningitis may face long-term effects such as hearing loss, seizures, limb weakness, and cognitive or communication difficulties. In some cases, sepsis can lead to scarring or limb amputation.
Medical experts advise immediate antibiotic treatment when bacterial meningitis is suspected, without waiting for lumbar puncture results. Treatment should be tailored to the patient’s age, immune status, and local resistance patterns. In non-epidemic settings, corticosteroids like dexamethasone are recommended alongside antibiotics to reduce inflammation and the risk of neurological damage.
(Inputs from IANS)