For example, if a sufferer is left feeling tired, depressed and unable to concentrate, it may be weeks or even months before they are able to return to a normal routine. The more stress-free the recovery period can be, the sooner the sufferer will improve. Patients should not rush themselves - but rather listen to what their body is telling them and not attempt too much too soon. Many sufferers have found success using 'complementary' medicines to deal with after effects. Although it is unusual for anyone to get the disease more than once, even when it is caused by different germs, it is not unknown, and the Foundation is in touch with people who have had the disease more than once.
Recurrent meningitis is typically viral, and it is very rare in cases of bacterial meningitis.
It is possible for someone to suffer pneumococcal meningitis more than once, due to a tiny fracture or defect in the skull, but this happens very rarely. Although there is only a slightly increased risk of contracting the disease from patients who have had meningococcal meningitis, sufferers of this strain are given antibiotics upon discharge from hospital to make sure they are no longer infectious. A vaccine should be recommended for those in close contact with patients who have suffered A, C, Y, or W-135 meningococcal meningitis . All strains of meningitis are a low risk in terms of patients passing on the germ. Patients can safely return to work or school and socialize with friends and relatives as soon as they feel well enough.