Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may progress over one or two days, but it can also develop very quickly, sometimes in a matter of hours.
Most cases of meningitis start with a high fever, severe headache and stiff neck (however a stiff neck is an uncommon symptom in young children). Vomiting and drowsiness often follow. The person may complain of discomfort when looking at bright lights. In some cases a rash may appear. If you suspect meningitis, seek urgent medical attention.
Every SECOND counts!
If you see a rash, use the ‘glass test’. Most importantly, trust your instincts. If you suspect meningitis, seek urgent medical attention – Call 111, see your doctor, or go to a hospital.
A rash may occur with some forms of meningitis. You can test whether a rash is caused by meningococcal bacteria, by pressing a glass against it. If you can still see the rash through the glass, there’s a high chance that it’s a meningococcal rash.
Remember – Not everyone who gets meningitis has a rash. It’s an important symptom, but don’t delay seeking medical help just because someone doesn’t have a rash.
Don’t hesitate to return to the doctor or hospital immediately if the person deteriorates or you are still concerned.
Important things to know about a baby with a pale, blotchy complexion.
Pale, blotchy skin, with spots or a rash can be a symptom of meningitis. If your baby’s skin is dark it may be harder to check, so you will need to look at areas of skin that are lightest (e.g. eyelids and the palms of the hand). You can test if a rash is caused by meningococcal bacteria by pressing a glass against it. If you can still see the rash through the glass, there’s a high chance that it’s a meningococcal rash. Don’t wait for a rash to appear though as not everyone gets a rash.
The bacteria which cause meningitis can also cause septicaemia (blood poisoning). The symptoms are similar to meningitis and can kill within 24 hours. Know the symptoms and act quickly if you are concerned.
*The rash can start anywhere on the body and can vary in appearance. In some cases it may start as a pink rash, or a pink, purple or red spot. It may also appear as pink, red, purple or brownish pin-prick spots which may develop into a bruise like rash. The rash is due to septicaemia (blood poisoning) and is caused by bleeding into the skin. The rash should be taken seriously. Seek urgent medical attention.
If you believe someone is seriously ill, do not wait for a rash to appear as it may not appear in all cases. Seek urgent medical attention.
Trust your instincts – If concerned, see a doctor immediately!
Remember, every SECOND counts.
