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.