The germs which cause meningococcal infection are very common. Infection is very uncommon and appears to be due to individual susceptibility. Almost all of the approximately 2,500 cases a year in the UK are isolated and sporadic.
Secondary cases are rare, even amongst close family contacts.
In a minority of cases, meningitis is not a prominent feature and a more generalised infection known as septicaemia occurs. The symptoms are mainly those of a flu-type illness which can progress quickly to a severe illness and unconciousness. Helplines and advice Information leaflets on meningococcal infection are available from the Health Centre, Porters' Lodges and the Students' Union.