Meningitis
Meningitis is a bacterial or viral infection that causes inflammation in the lining surrounding the brain. It can affect anyone but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. Babies and young children under five years of age are most at risk, especially under 1 years of age. Most cases are viral infections which are not life-threatening. Symptoms are so mild that they are often mistaken for the flu. Bacterial meningitis however can spread into the blood stream which can cause sepsis. If left untreated it can cause severe brain damage and infect the blood leading to septic shock. A child with bacterial meningitis will usually deteriorate rapidly.
Recognition
- A high temperature (fever)
- Cold hands and feet
- Severe headache
- Sensitivity to light
- Stiff neck
- Seizures
- Being sick/ refusing to feed
- Agitated
- Headache
- A rash that doesn’t fade when a glass is rolled over it
- Drowniness/ unresponsive
- Grunt or rapid breathing
- Babies may have a high pitched cry
Do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. The rash can be a late sign and it doesn’t always occur. Get advice early if you suspect meningitis or sepsis. Symptoms can appear in any order or some not at all.
The rash can be harder to see on dark skin. Look for a pin prick rash in the skin under the eye or on the roof of the mouth.
Treatment
- Seek urgent medical advice
- Time is critical, on the emergency call say suspected meningitis
- While waiting for help reassure the child and keep them cool. Monitor them closely and record vital signs.