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Meningitis Scare: Student Nearly Died From Headache
24 Mar
Summary
- Student Lara Drew was diagnosed with life-threatening streptococcal meningitis.
- Doctors stated she was minutes from death after misdiagnosing her headache.
- Lara recovered after hospital treatment and physiotherapy to walk again.
A young student's severe headache was initially dismissed as freshers' flu, leading to a near-fatal diagnosis of streptococcal meningitis. Lara Drew, 22, experienced agonizing pain and light aversion, progressing to seizures. Medics at William Harvey Hospital in Ashford, Kent, reportedly informed her parents she was half an hour from death.
After spending 10 days in hospital on an IV drip, Lara survived the infection. She required extensive physiotherapy to regain her ability to walk, transitioning from drama student to pilates instructor. Her experience underscores the dangers of underestimating severe symptoms.
The incident occurs amidst a meningitis outbreak in Kent, though vaccination efforts have seen a decrease in cases. Lara's recovery serves as a powerful warning to young people about the importance of self-care and utilizing the NHS when feeling unwell, potentially saving lives.
Bacterial meningitis is a serious condition that can lead to sepsis and affect the brain. While vaccinations introduced in 2015 have reduced infections, individuals over 11 may not be covered unless privately vaccinated. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has lauded efforts to protect the public.
