Infants
Children and Adults
Glass test
Resources
Remember - meningitis and septicaemia often occur together. If you suspect someone has meningitis, seek medical help immediately - every minute counts.
Common signs and symptoms in infants may include:
These symptoms may not all appear, and can occur in any order and at the same time.
Common signs and symptoms in children and adults can include:
As with infants, these symptoms can appear in any order, and some may not occur at all.
Press the side of a clear glass against the skin over the rash. If the rash does not fade under pressure, this can be a sign of meningococcal septicaemia.
Note that this rash may not always appear in meningitis, so if other symptoms are present it is a good idea to see a doctor. The rash may also initially fade, so if you suspect meningitis, keep checking it and see a doctor.
This page was adapted from information supplied by The Meningitis Trust, a registered charity that relies on donations to provide emotional and practical support to those affected by meningitis.
Meningitis Trust website: www.meningitis-trust.org
If you want help or information, there is a 24 hour nurse-lead helpline available on 0800 028 1828