THE SIGNS OF MENINGITIS & SEPTICAEMIA What is Meningitis?, What is Septicaemia? Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by bacteria and viruses. Bacteria cause the most dangerous type of Meningitis Septicaemia is an infection of the blood caused by poisons that are released by bacteria. Septicaemia often happens without Meningitis and kills more people than Meningitis. How Do People get Meningitis and Septicaemia? One in ten of us, at any time, are carrying the bacteria which causes meningitis and Septicaemia We pass them between each other by regular, close, prolonged contact, such as intimate kissing. Most of us can carry these bacteria without getting ill. But, in a very few people the bacteria get into the blood stream and cause Meningitis or Septicaemia Babies and young children are most at risk, but anyone can get these diseases so make sure you know what to look out for. Knowing the signs and symptoms could help save a life! Symptoms   SEPTICAEMIA MENINGITIS Rash Fever/Vomiting Cold hands and feet   Rapid breathing   Stomach/joint/muscle pain   Drowsiness/losing conciousness Severe headache   Stiff neck   Dislike of bright lights   Symptoms can appear in any order. Not everyone gets all these symptoms. Septicaemia can occur with or without Meningitis. Headaches and fever are also symptoms of common infections. Babies As well as the symptoms show on the chart above babies may also suffer from. 1. Tense or bulging fontanelle (the soft spot on the babies head.) 2. Blotchy or pale skin 3. Refusing to feed 4. Fretfulness, with a shrill or moaning cry when picked up. 5. A stiff body with jerky movements or a floppy body. Do the Tumbler test. Most people with septicaemia develop a rash, if you are worried about someone who is ill with a rash you can do a simple test for septicaemia called the tumbler test. The test is sown in the picture below, if a glass tumbler is placed firmly a septicaemia rash, the rash will not fade. You will be able to see the rash through the glass. If this happens get a doctors help immediately. If Someone is ill If you think someone has Meningitis or Septicaemia, contact your GP immediately. Tell the doctor about the symptoms and say that you are worried it is Meningitis or Septicaemia If your GP is not available, and the person is becoming worse fast get them as quick as you can to the nearest Accident and Emergency department. As soon as you arrive at hospital, tell the staff that you are worried that the person has Meningitis or Septicaemia Remember Someone who has Meningitis or Septicaemia needs medical help urgently. Trust you instincts and get medical help immediately if you are worried. If you need more information contact the Meningitis Research Foundation 24 hour helpline on 0808 8003344 All information was provided by the Meningitis Research Foundation.