Helping parents identify the signs and symptoms of meningitis 
(05/01/2009)
The Meningitis Trust is warning parents to watch out for the signs and symptoms of this life-threatening disease. Every year there is an increase in cases of meningitis over the winter months. Nearly 60% of the most serious bacterial types occur between October and March, and although the disease affects all ages, over half of those cases will be in children under 5.
The Meningitis Trust is urging parents to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of meningitis; we are at an increased risk of infectious diseases during the winter as we spend more time indoors and in closer proximity to others - meaning germs are spread more easily.
Meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia (blood poisoning) can affect anyone at any time; however babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to infectious diseases such as meningitis due to their immature immune systems. Meningitis can strike unexpectedly, and the speed at which people become ill and the dramatic and sometimes devastating course of events make meningitis and septicaemia alarming diseases.
Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. There are two different types of meningitis:
Viral meningitis - rarely life-threatening, but can make people very unwell. Most people make a full recovery, but some can be left with after-effects such as headaches, tiredness and memory loss.
Bacterial meningitis - can be life-threatening and needs urgent medical attention. Most people who suffer from bacterial meningitis recover, but many can be left with a variety of after-effects.
Around 3000 cases of bacterial meningitis occur every year in the UK and there are probably more than double that number of cases of viral meningitis. Around 50% of these cases occur in children under 5, who are regarded as an 'at risk' group for the disease.
It kills more children than any other infectious disease in the UK. 10% of all cases of bacterial meningitis will result in death. An estimated 15% of those who survive will be left with devastating after-effects including brain damage, loss of hearing and sight, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and where septicaemia has occurred, loss of limbs. There is still no vaccine available to protect against meningococcal group B bacteria, the most common cause of meningitis.
Meningitis and septicaemia are often difficult to recognise. In the early stages, signs and symptoms can be similar to common illnesses like flu. Symptoms can appear in any order and some may not appear at all. Meningitis and septicaemia often happen together - be aware of all the signs and symptoms and trust your instincts!
Signs and symptoms for babies and toddlers:
Meningitis
- Fever
- Refusing food or vomiting
- Fretful, dislike of being handled
- Pale blotchy skin
- Listless, unresponsive
- Drowsy, difficult to wake
- Unusual high-pitched cry, moaning
Septicaemia
- Fever, cold hands and feet
- Refusing food or vomiting
- Pale blotchy skin
- Spots or rash that does not fade under pressure
- Floppy, listless, unresponsive
- Rapid breathing or grunting
- Drowsy, difficult to wake
A rash that does not fade under pressure is a sign of septicaemia. To test for the rash, use the glass test - spots or a rash that do not fade under pressure will still be seen when the side of a clear drinking glass is pressed firmly against the skin. Do not wait for a rash before seeking medical attention - the rash does not always appear.
What should I do if I suspect my child has meningitis?
If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia, contact your GP or accident and emergency immediately.
Treating meningitis
Bacterial meningitis and septicaemia need urgent medical treatment with antibiotics. If they are recognised and treated early, they are less likely to become life-threatening or cause serious after-effects.
The Meningitis Trust is committed to providing lifelong practical and emotional support to people whose lives have been affected by meningitis. The Trust offers a range of free, professional support services including:
- A freephone 24-hour nurse-led helpline 0800 028 18 28
- counselling
- financial support grants
- home visits
- one-to-one contacts
The Meningitis Trust produces a range of awareness information materials, such as free handy credit card sized signs and symptoms cards.
The Meningitis Trust is appealing for toddlers to take part in its 10th Toddle Waddle this April. The event, supported by HiPP Organic, is a fun, sponsored walk or waddle for the under 5s.
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