A TEMPERATURE and a general feeling of being unwell are the first symptoms of meningitis. The initial stages are similar to flu and the condition of a person with meningitis will deteriorate rapidly, according to Department of Health guidelines.
The symptoms include fever, vomiting, severe headache, neck stiffness and joint pains, a dislike of bright lights, a rash and drowsiness or coma. The symptoms in babies include the swelling of the soft spot on the top of the head blotchy or pale skin, a staring expression, fretfulness, refusing food and shrill crying, especially when they are handled.
The bacteria that cause meningitis can also cause septicaemia, or blood poisoning.
This is characterised by a rash of red pinprick marks on the skin which develop later into large, purple, bruise like marks. If a glass is pressed firmly against a scepticaemic rash, the rash will remain visible through the glass.
The bacteria live naturally in the nose and at the back of the throat. They are difficult to transmit and are spread by coughing, sneezing and kissing. People can carry the bacteria without developing the disease. Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotics. Early diagnosis improves the chance of successful treatment.