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What are the signs and symptoms?
Meningitis and meningococcal disease can be very
difficult to spot at first, as the symptoms can be
similar to those of flu. It may develop over one or two
days but can also develop in a matter of hours.
Unfortunately a number of people who contract meningitis
will also develop meningococcal septicaemia. Septicaemia
is blood poisoning caused by the meningococcal bacteria
entering the bloodstream and can be fatal if not
detected quickly. It manifests itself as a rash, often
starting as just a couple of spots almost like pin
pricks and progressing very quickly. There may be
hundreds of spots within a few hours. It is imperative
that if such a rash develops the patient should be taken
straight to hospital or dial 111 for emergency
assistance.
Do not wait for a rash as it may be the last symptom to
appear, and in some cases may not appear at all.
Symptoms of meningitis do not appear in any particular
order and some may not appear at all. The signs include
fever, vomiting, headache, rash, stiff neck, young
children refusing food or drinks, high-pitched crying
from babies, sleepiness and joint pain.
Anyone with suspected meningococcal disease symptoms
should go to a doctor immediately.
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