Know the signs of meningitis – it could save a life
As students return to colleges and universities the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding students during Meningitis Awareness Week (16-22 September) to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis as it could save a life.
Teenagers and young adults (14 - 24 years old) are more at risk than older adults, especially when away from home with no parents around to look after them.
Meningococcal disease is a serious illness caused by a bacterium known as meningococcus. These bacteria can cause meningitis and septicaemia. Meningitis is the inflammation of the linings of the brain and spinal cord, while septicaemia is the blood poisoning form of the disease. These two conditions have different sets of symptoms and may occur separately or together so it is important to be aware of both.
Meningitis is an infection that can be fatal, so it is absolutely vital that all students know the symptoms. They can appear in any order and may include:
- A high temperature and /or vomiting;
- Cold hands and feet;
- Severe headache;
- A stiff neck, aching limbs and joints;
- A dislike of bright lights;
- Drowsiness or purple rash, which does not fade when pressed.
Not everyone will have all these symptoms, and if they worsen, get medical help immediately.
Dr Maureen McCartney, Consultant in Health Protection at the PHA, said: “When away from home with no parents around to keep an eye on your wellbeing, it is easy to neglect your own health. Even if you are generally fit and healthy and think it is just a hangover or flu, check for the symptoms, don't just leave it, and tell someone if you feel unwell. Also, keep an eye on friends and housemates, if they are unwell keep checking on them - don’t just assume they will be ok.
“Coming into the colder months there is a tendency to see more cases of meningococcal disease, which is why it is particularly important for everyone to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms.
“Symptoms of meningococcal disease are often non-specific and easily mistaken for other illnesses such as flu in the early stages, but the disease can come on very quickly and it is important to seek urgent medical attention if you think meningitis is occurring.
“A very important sign is a rash which does not disappear if a glass is pressed against it. If someone develops this then they need urgent medical attention. It can appear anywhere on the body so it is important to check under clothing. However, the rash doesn’t always appear, so don’t wait for it before seeking medical attention if other signs are present, trust your instincts if you or a friend has a temperature and seems more unwell than they would be with the flu.”
Further information can be found on www.meningitisuk.org