Be alert to meningococcal disease

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) North West is warning people to watch out for the signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection with further wintry weather expected across the region over the weeks ahead.

Every year, cases of meningococcal disease peak during the winter months as many people fighting common complaints such as cold and ‘flu have a weakened immune system. Other risk factors include passive smoking and overcrowding.

Dr Catherine Quigley, HPA North West Regional Epidemiologist, said: “We would normally expect the number of cases to level off with Spring just around the corner. However the cold snap we are experiencing means the peak season isn’t over just yet and people still need to be on the look-out for signs of infection.

“It is important that everyone has a basic knowledge of the symptoms. Crucially, if they suspect someone has the disease, they should call the doctor immediately, or if they are unavailable, take the patient to the nearest Accident and Emergency department.”

The advice is being issued after figures show that, compared to other regions, the North West recorded the highest number of cases of meningococcal infection in England and Wales during the last quarter of 2009.

Meningococcal infection is caused by meningococcus bacteria and can result in meningitis (inflammation of the brain lining) and/or septicaemia (blood poisoning).

Infection can occur at any age although most cases are recorded in children under the age of four. Young people aged 13-19 are the next most vulnerable group.

Vaccines are available to protect against certain types of meningitis. Over the last 20 years vaccines against Hib (1992), Meningitis C (1999) and most recently Pneumococcal Meningitis (2006) have been introduced.

However, there is still no vaccine to protect against all forms of meningitis and associated diseases, including the most common type in the UK - meningococcal group B (also referred to as meningitis B), making it vital that people are aware of early symptoms.

Common early symptoms of meningococcal disease include:

• A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass (known as the tumbler test) due to bleeding under the skin
• Sudden onset of high fever
• A severe and worsening headache (without any other obvious cause)
• Severe neck stiffness
• Dislike of bright lights
• Very cold hands and feet
• Drowsiness that can deteriorate into a fever

Babies with meningococcal disease tend to be irritable when picked up and have a high-pitched cry, stiff body and jerking movements.

Dr Quigley added: “Sometimes these symptoms are not visible, particularly in babies and very young children. So if a baby is obviously ill or distressed, parents should seek medical help immediately. It is never worth taking a chance with a child’s health.”