Meningitis is a severe infection affecting the systematic function of the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the appearance of  a meningococcal bacteria, which can result in brain damage and bloodstream infections that if left untreated can eventually quickly become fatal.

The meningococcal bacteria that leads to meningitis comes in many forms depending on the area you travel to. High-risk areas are usually vastly crowded, making exposure to coughing, sneezing and shared appliances more common.

Meningitis is regularly found in parts of Africa, Asia and Saudi Arabia.

Most people infected with the bacterial forms of Meningitis but treated immediately will likely make a full recovery. However, those who fail to spot the symptoms early and delay effective treatment can be left with life-changing and long-term complications.

There are several ways you can prevent contracting meningococcal meningitis including having the vaccination, avoiding close person contact and also sharing personal items. Our travel expert can carry out a risk assessment for you and provide expert advice to keep yourself safe when travelling in meningococcal meningitis risk area.

Content Reviewed By

Ghulam Haydar,

MPharm, IPresc