This page contains information materials and how to access further information and support.
NHS Health Scotland, The Scottish Government and Health Protection Scotland in collaboration with NHS24, leading Meningitis charities and campaigners in Scotland, previously developed an awareness-raising campaign to increase knowledge of the signs and symptoms of Meningitis and Septicaemia. Links to the previous campaign materials are below:
Although rare, the outcomes of contracting Meningitis and Septicaemia can be very severe, including permanent disability and death. Research shows that people are generally not aware of the signs and symptoms of Meningitis and Septicaemia or that prompt action can save lives.
For further information on meningitis and septicaemia visit NHS Inform´s web pages on meningitis (external link).
Meningococcal ACWY Programme
In August 2015, the Scottish Government introduced the MenACWY immunisation programme for all young people aged 14–18 years. The programme was in response to a sudden increase in cases of meningococcal group W (MenW) across the UK.
A phased catch-up programme was delivered from 1 August 2015, in order to immunise young people who had left schools and were aged 16–18 years.
From January 2016, the MenACWY vaccine is part of the routine teenage programme and is offered to all young people in S3 at school. The MenACWY vaccine has replaced the MenC vaccine used in the routine adolescent programme in S3.
For more information about the MenACWY vaccine visit the Immunisation Scotland website or phone the NHS inform helpline by telephone on 0800 22 44 88 (text phone 18001 0800 22 44 88).
Student Emma Hendry, Health Protection Nurse Fiona Browning and Parent Eric Russell tell their real life stories about their own experience of meningitis and septicaemia and how important it is to know the signs.
Emma Henry - Student
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Fiona Browning - Health Protection Nurse
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Eric Russell - Parent
Read the transcript
In an emergency
If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia, seek medical help immediately.
Call NHS24 on 111.