“Know the signs of Meningococcal Disease,” warn HPA

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Meningococcal infection is very common this time of year, and Professor Qutub Syed, Director of the Health Protection Agency (HPA) North West, is warning everyone to be aware of the symptoms.

“Meningococcal disease is not always easy to detect, but we are keen to ensure that everyone should have a basic knowledge of the signs to look out for and be prepared to take urgent action when they recognise them,” Professor Syed explains.

“Our advice is that if you suspect that someone has meningococcal disease, call the doctor immediately. If the doctor isn’t available, take the patient to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department. Prompt action is vital.”

Meningococcal is the germ that causes the infection, and can lead to many serious other infections, such as meningitis, which is inflammation of the brain lining, and/or septicemia, a common form of blood poisoning.

Meningococcal can affect any age, although it’s more likely to appear in children under four years old. Teenagers up to age 19 are the most venerable group.

Early symptoms of the disease may include: 

• A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass (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 (photophobia)
• Very cold hands and feet
• Drowsiness that can deteriorate into a fever 

Common signs of the disease in babies with meningococcal are that, the baby tends to be irritable when picked up, have a high pitched cry, stiff body and jerking movements.

“The symptoms are not always present and this can be a problem, particularly in identifying the disease in babies and very young children. If a baby is obviously ill or distressed, parents should seek medical help immediately. Don’t take a chance with a child’s health,” Professor Syed said.

Further information on meningococcal infection is available from: 

• The Meningitis Trust on 0800-028-1828 or at www.meningitis-trust.org
• Meningitis Research Foundation on 0808-800-3344 or www.meningitis.org
• NHS Direct on 0845-4647