Meningitis - spot the signs

Meningitis – spot the signs

October 17, 2018
Childhood Illness, meningitis, septicaemia

Meningitis can affect anyone. It can strike quickly and kill within hours and its impact can last a lifetime. Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by many different organisms, including bacteria and viruses.

VIRAL MENINGITIS is usually relatively mild. It clears up within a week or two without specific treatment and is also called aseptic meningitis.

BACTERIAL MENINGITIS is much more serious. It can cause severe disease that can result in brain damage and even death.

PEOPLE MOST AT RISK:

Everybody carries a very small risk, but certain age groups are more susceptible

The under-fives are the most at risk group, particularly the under ones

Teenagers and young adults are the second most at risk group, then the over 55s.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia, remaining vigilant and getting medical help quickly can save lives. They can often happen together so be aware of all the signs and symptoms.

SIGNS IN BABIES AND TODDLERS:-

SIGNS IN CHILDREN AND ADULTS:-

Some bacteria can cause meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning). People with septicaemia may develop a rash of tiny red ‘pin pricks’ which can develop into purple bruising like this.

Septicaemia – THIS RASH DOES NOT FADE UNDER PRESSURE. DO THE GLASS TEST.

Early symptoms can include: Fever, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, stomach cramps, fever with cold hands and feet. Someone with meningitis or septicaemia can get a lot worse very quickly. Keep checking them and most importantly, trust your instincts to get medical help immediately.

WHICH VACCINES ARE AVAILABLE TO PROTECT AGAINST MENINGITIS?

Vaccines are the only way to prevent meningitis
Due to an increase in Men W cases, a Men ACWY vaccine is now part of the routine immunisation schedule
Men B vaccine was introduced into the routine immunisation schedule in September 2015
MenB vaccine information.

DOWNLOAD THE MENINGITIS VACCINES FACT SHEET

LEAVING HOSPITAL AND RETURNING HOME

Leaving hospital after meningitis can be a worrying time. The Meningitis Now helpline is available to listen, answer your questions and offer information. They also have a community team working across the UK who can visit to explain how they can help.

Don’t forget:

The after-effects of meningitis aren’t always present straight away. You can speak to your GP about any concerns about your recovery.
Anyone leaving hospital after meningitis should be given an individual plan for future. treatment and care, as well as being made aware of what support is available.
Ask for information and contact details for further care and patient support.
The hospital should inform your GP, health visitor and school nurse (for children).
Hearing loss is a common after-effect. It is vital that a hearing test is done within four weeks of being well enough to test.
Everyone should also have a follow-up appointment within four to six weeks of leaving hospital. This provides an opportunity to discuss the recovery process and any complications causing concern.
For children Meningitis Now have ‘My Journal’ and ‘Your Guide‘, resources that allow you to keep track of their recovery, follow-up appointments and continued care and support.

MENINGITIS NOW CAN HELP YOU

Meningitis Now have lots of resources on the different types of meningitis and their impact. Their free support services can help you rebuild your life after meningitis. Get in touch to find out more.

MENINGITIS HELPLINE ON 0808 80 10 388 (UK)
WWW.MENINGITISNOW.ORG

For more advice on Childhood Illnesses our team of paediatric nurses run Family First Aid Courses for parents and carers or Paediatric First Aid Courses for teachers, childminders and other childcare professionals in Bucks, Berks, Oxfordshire, Herts and surrounding areas.

Source: Meningitis Now