Bacterial meningitis is becoming an acute, deadly illness, with estimates that one in six infected people will die even with prompt medical care and antibiotic treatment. However, new research reveals that those who survive this disease face significant physical, psychological and social impacts beyond the acute treatment phase. The research, conducted in Aotearoa New Zealand, surveyed 16 adult participants and in-depth interviews with ten others, found that bacterial meningiti was a long-term illness with far-reaching impacts. Participants described multiple chronic after-effects, including fatigue, difficulties with concentration, memory, emotional regulation, persistent headaches, mobility, vision and hearing. These after-effections were permanent for some and persisted for years. Participants were not offered mental health follow-up despite facing a life-threatening medical diagnosis, a risk factor for post-traumatic stress disorder. The researchers suggest that realistic information and responsive support for patients and families to help adjust to life after the disease.