National News
Meningitis in babies and children
Children under five are most at risk from meningitis and septicaemia so it’s important to know the signs and symptoms, and what to do if you think your child might have meningitis.
Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to meningitis and septicaemia as they cannot easily fight infection because their immune system is not yet fully developed.
Meningitis and septicaemia can strike quickly so it’s important to make sure you know the signs and symptoms and seek urgent medical help if you are concerned. It can be reassuring to know that bacterial meningitis and septicaemia are not very common now as a result of the childhood immunisation programme.
So what is meningitis? Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. This infection causes these membranes (the meninges) to become inflamed, which in some cases can damage the nerves and brain.
What are the signs and symptoms? As babies and toddlers can’t tell you how they’re feeling, it can be easy to miss vital signs and symptoms of meningitis. Learn what to look out for, trust your instincts and seek urgent medical help if you’re concerned.
A baby or young child with meningitis or septicaemia may:
have a high fever, with cold hands and feet
vomit and refuse to feed
have a severe headache
feel agitated and not want to be picked up
become drowsy, floppy and unresponsive
grunt or breathe rapidly
have an unusual high-pitched or moaning cry
have pale, blotchy skin, and a red rash that doesn't fade when a glass is rolled over it
have a tense, bulging soft spot on their head (fontanelle)
have a stiff neck and dislike bright lights (both less common in young children)
have convulsions or seizures (fits)
be confused and delirious
have limb/joint/muscle pain
The above symptoms can appear in any order, and some may not appear at all.
The rash can be harder to see on dark skin, in which case check for spots on paler areas like the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, on the tummy, inside the eyelids and on the roof of the mouth. However, don't wait for a rash to develop. If your child is unwell and getting worse, seek medical help immediately.