Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It is very serious and needs immediate attention. In babies, the condition can get worse very quickly and so it needs to be treated as soon as possible. Children can make a full recovery from meningitis if it is treated promptly.
The same germs that cause meningitis also cause a similarly serious condition called septicaemia (blood poisoning). This blood infection often accompanies meningitis and can progress quickly to coma and death.
Symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia (in babies):
- an unusual, high -pitched moaning cry
- listlessness and drowsiness
- refusing feeds
- vomiting
- pale and blotchy skin
- red or purple rash or spots anywhere on the body. These spots will not fade under pressure. You can press a glass firmly against the spot and it will not disappear unlike usual spots. A red rash that does not fade under pressure is a meningitis rash. Contact doctor immediately.
Symptoms of meningitis and septocaemia (in older children):
- dark red or purple spots. These spots will not fade under pressure. You can press a glass firmly against the spot and it will not disappear unlike usual spots. A red rash that does not fade under pressure is a meningitis rash. Contact doctor immediately.
- stiffness in the neck
- drowsiness and listlessness
- sensitivity to bright light
- severe headache
Causes:
Meningitis can be caused by a number of different types of viruses or bacteria. Meningococcal group B and C are two types of bacteria that cause a high number of cases of meningitis in the UK. Group B is the commonest but group C causes more deaths. These bacteria can cause meningitis or septicaemia or both at once.
