During last year there were over 2500 cases of Meningitis recorded in the U.K. Sadly 370 of these resulted in death with many more permanently disabled. Many people think that because they have received the C vaccine to protect them against Meningitis and Septicaemia that these diseases are a thing of the past. This in not true. There is still no vaccine against the most common type of Meningitis GROUP B. We believe it is very important to keep raising funds for research and improving awareness of the symptoms.

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KNOW THE SYMPTOMS

There are two types of meningococcal infections: septicaemia and meningitis. Someone suffering from meningococcal septicaemia may not necessarily develop meningitis. Therefore it is of the utmost importance that everyone is aware of the common symptoms of both diseases.

The common symptoms of meningococcal septicaemia

A red rash (see Tumbler Test) Cold hands and feet Rapid breathing Drowsiness or impaired consciousness Abdominal/joint and muscle pain Floppy child Fever, vomiting (may not be present at first) The common symptoms of bacterial meningitis Headache Stiff neck Dislike of bright lights Body stiffening with jerky movements Floppy child Fever, vomiting Confusion and drowsiness Rash

A rash may not always be present so do not wait for a rash to develop.
Anyone whose health rapidly deteriorates in a matter of a few hours should seek medical attention immediately.

** Not everyone gets all these symptoms, and they can appear in any order **

THE TUMBLER TEST

The rash of tiny spots develops into bruising marks. To identify the rash, press a glass tumbler against the spots. If the rash does not fade when the glass is pressed on, it could be meningococcal septicaemia. Go straight to your Doctor or nearest Casualty Unit.

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