Meningitis - what to look for

The glass test can help you identify "the meningitis rash". Credit: Meningitis Now

The charity Meningitis Now has produced a guide to the common signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia:

  • Fever, cold hands and feet

  • Drowsy, difficult to wake

  • Severe muscle pain

  • Severe headache

  • Dislike bright lights

  • Vomiting

  • Confusion and irritability

  • Stiff neck

  • Convulsions/seizures

  • Pale, blotchy skin. Spots/rash

Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin.

Fever with spots/rash that do not fade under pressure is a medical emergency.

Do not wait for a rash. If someone is ill and getting worse, get medical help immediately.

Early symptoms can include:

Fever, headache, vomiting, muscle pain and fever with cold hands and feet.

Someone with meningitis or septicaemia can get a lot worse very quickly. Keep checking them.

Trust your instincts – Get medical help immediately