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Winter Meningitis Warning
| Published: 26th November 2008 09:05 |
As winter draws in, the Meningitis Trust is warning people to watch out for the signs and symptoms of this potentially life-threatening disease.
Every year there is an increase in cases of meningitis over the winter months.
The early symptoms of meningitis can easily be mistaken for those of flu and include fever, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright light, drowsiness, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion and in some, but not all cases, a rash.
The Glass Test
Spots or a rash will still be seen when the side of a clear drinking glass is pressed firmly against the skin
A fever, together with spots or a rash that do not fade under pressure, is a medical emergency.
The Meningitis Trust therefore urges everyone to be aware of these signs, and seek medical advice immediately if there is even a suspicion of meningitis.
"It's important that people know the signs and symptoms of meningitis, and awareness talks are a great way of doing this".
Christine Hughes, the local Community Development Officer who covers the North West area is available to give talks on meningitis. She regularly visits nurseries, schools and community groups to talk about the disease and also the work of the Meningitis Trust charity.
Christine said "The Trust also has a wide range of free information including credit card sized symptom cards, leaflets, posters as well as specialist resources for early years workers and schools. Christine can be contacted on 0845 120 4764 or via email at ChristineH@meningitis-trust.org
The Meningitis Trust can also be contacted via its free 24-hour, freephone, nurse-led helpline on 0800 028 18 28 or on the Meningitis Website
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