MENINGITIS: KNOW THE SIGNS – ACT FAST
Meningitis can become serious very quickly. Knowing the symptoms could save a life.
COMMON SYMPTOMS (ALL AGES)
• High temperature (fever)
• Severe headache
• Vomiting
• Stiff neck
• Sensitivity to light
• Drowsiness or difficulty waking
• Confusion
• Cold hands and feet, limb pain, pale or mottled skin
HE RASH – IMPORTANT
• A rash that does NOT fade when pressed (glass test) can be serious
• May start as small red spots → purple bruising
Do NOT wait for a rash – it may not appear
BABIES & YOUNG CHILDREN
• Floppy or unresponsive
• High-pitched or unusual crying
• Refusing feeds
• Vomiting
• Bulging soft spot on head
• Stiff body or jerky movements
• Pale, blotchy, or blue skin
GET HELP IMMEDIATELY
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
• Very unwell
• Non-fading rash
• Confusion or seizures
• Difficulty waking or breathing
Contact GP / NHS 111 urgently if concerned
REMEMBER
• Symptoms can appear in ANY order
• They can get worse VERY quickly
• Trust your instincts – seek help
PROTECTION
Routine childhood vaccinations protect against several types of meningitis.
If in doubt – get checked out. It could save a life.
