Winter Warning For Meningitis
| Published: 12th December 2007 08:12 |
Winter Meningitis Warning
As winter wends it's merry way upon us the Meningitis Trust has issued a warning to 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 during the winter months.
The early symptoms of meningitis can easily be mistaken for those of ordinary flu and include fever, headache, stiff neck, discomfort in bright light, drowsiness, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion and a rash in some, but by no means all cases. A rash that does not fade under pressure (see ‘The Glass Test') is a sign of meningococcal septicaemia. This rash may begin as a few small spots anywhere on the body and can spread quickly to look like fresh bruises.
The Meningitis Trust therefore urges everyone to be aware of these signs and seek medical advice immediately if there is even a suspician of the condition. If you 'know' that something is not right, but are dismissed by your medical professional, make sure you persist until you receive a satisfactory response. Trust your instincts - you know your child better than anyone.
"It's important that people know the signs and symptoms of meningitis, and awareness talks are a great way of doing this". Matthew Clarke, Meningitis Trust The local Community Development Officer for our area is Nicky Smith who covers Kent, Surrey East and West Sussex. Nicky can be contacted on 0845 120 4810 or email nicks@meningitis-trust.org.The Community Development Officers are available to give talks on meningitis, raising awareness, providing literature and presentations within your community.
They regularly visit nurseries, schools and community groups to talk about the disease as well as the work of the Meningitis Trust, which is a charity.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.The Meningitis Trust is a charity and therefore relies heavily on donations. For more information visit their website or telephone their freephone 24-hour, nurse-led helpline 0800 028 18 28.
