ICU stay leads woman to unexpected photo after five days

After five days in an ICU for meningococcal meningitis, Anna Gallo shared photos showing severe matting of her hair and has since been released and is recovering.

Anna Gallo, 24, became seriously ill while visiting Japan and was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis and septic shock on February 6, 2026. Her condition required intubation and sedation, and she spent five days in an intensive care unit before moving to another ward. She remained in hospital for about ten more days and has since been discharged. During recovery she noticed severe matting in her hair, which she later shared in photos online. Known details: - Gallo was hospitalized on Feb. 6, 2026, and diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis (meningitis B) and septic shock. - She was intubated and sedated and spent five days in the ICU, followed by roughly ten days on another ward before release. - Photos she posted on TikTok showed extensive matting of her hair after the ICU stay, and the post received widespread attention. - Sources report she is recovering after discharge, has chosen a shorter haircut, and has urged vaccination against meningitis. Summary: Gallo's experience illustrates some of the personal and physical effects that can follow a severe ICU admission. She is reported as continuing to recover after leaving hospital. Undetermined at this time.