Dryden
Brown Ltd
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TRAVEL
HEALTH
MENINGITIS
Meningitis
is a rare illness caused by inflammation of the lining of
the brain (meninges).
Meningitis is usually caused by infection. Virus infections
are less severe. Bacterial infections, particularly meningococcal
ones, can be fatal if not treated early. Meningococcal septicaemia
(blood poisoning) can occur with meningitis or on its own.
The symptoms of meningitis may not all appear at the same
time and can vary according to age. Symptoms associated
with meningitis are:
 Headache
(gradual onset, constant, increasing in severity and on
bending the neck forward).
Accompanied by fever, vomiting, drowsiness and sensitivity
to light.
A rash which forms and spreads quickly and looks like bruising.
The rash does not disappear when pressed against a clear
glass tumbler but it is often harder to see in dark skinned
people. Joint pains and fits may also occur.
For babies and small children, there may be fever, but with
cold hands and feet, constant vomiting, fretfulness, a blank
and staring expression, difficulty in waking, and refusing
food. There can be a high pitched moaning cry and pale blotchy
skin.
Early symptoms can be like severe flu and change with the
passage of time. If you are concerned then phone your doctor
for advice on the best course of action. If there is likely
to be a delay then it is best to go straight to Accident
& Emergency (Casualty).
If you have been in contact with someone who has had meningitis,
you should contact their next of kin to find out any instructions
from the hospital, or the director of public health, that
they may have been given. Your GP can give appropriate advice
after that.
To order
your copy of a What should I do? booklet
use one of the following methods:
On-line
Shop
Phone: +44 (0) 23 8022
9041
Fax: +44 (0) 23
8022 7274
 
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