What are the symptoms of Meningitis and Septicaemia?
Meningitis is not easy to identify at first because the symptoms are similar to those of flu. The disease develops quickly and the patient can become seriously ill in just a few hours. The symptoms may not appear at the same time and may be different in young babies, children and adults. • Red or purple spots that do not fade under pressure • Stiffness in the neck – can the person kiss his or her knee, or touch his or her forehead to the knee • Drowsiness or confusion • A severe headache, vomiting, a temperature • A dislike of bright light With septicaemia a rash usually develops which can range from tiny red spots to large blotchy bruises. Skin may be pale and clammy and the patient may complain of limb or joint pains. The spots or bruises must be taken seriously – call your doctor immediately.
