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General HealthDiseases and conditionsMeningitis -
symptom check
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Meningitis -
symptom check

It is a life-threatening condition, but it is treatable if you know what to look for and act quickly. Paediatrician, Dr Kerry Robinson provides a checklist of signs and symptoms

Who gets meningitis? It is more common in certain age groups including:

  • Newborn babies
  • Children under 10 years of age
  • 18-19 year age group
Main signs and symptoms – when children can tell you how they feel, look for:
  • Flu-like illness which comes on very quickly
  • High temperature
  • Severe headache
  • Being sick
  • Stiff neck
  • Aching muscles and joints.
Later signs are:
  • Drowsiness or loss of consciousness
  • Lights hurting their eyes
  • Fits
  • Rash – this will only be present if there is infection in the blood (septicaemia). It is a red colour and may start off looking like tiny pin pricks which progress to looking like a bruise. If you press on the rash with a glass it does not disappear.
It is more difficult to detect in babies. Things to watch out for are:
  • Uncontrollable crying, or a high pitched, moaning cry
  • Refusing feeds or vomiting
  • High temperature with cold hands and feet
  • Blotchy skin, getting paler or turning blue
  • Pin prick rash marks or purple bruising on the body
  • Stiff body with jerky movements and arching neck or the opposite, floppy and lifeless
  • Very sleepy/staring expression/difficulty arousing your baby
  • Tense or bulging soft spot on baby’s head
Remember, not every symptom needs to be present for a positive diagnosis of meningitis.

What should I do if I suspect my child has meningitis?

  • Acting quickly saves lives.
  • If you are concerned you should call your doctor right away.
  • This can either be your GP or your nearest A&E department.
The message is DON’T WAIT.

For help and advice contact the meningitis help line on 080 8800 3344. This is operated by trained staff and nurses 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

For more information see:
What is meningitis.

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This iVillage Health service area is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical attention, diagnosis or hands-on treatment. If you are concerned about your health or that of a child, please consult your family's health provider immediately and do not wait for a response from our professionals. For the full Disclaimer, click here.
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