Following the confirmation of a fourth case of meningitis linked to an outbreak in Reading, health officials are urging parents to be vigilant for symptoms. A junior school pupil has fallen ill, prompting renewed warnings about the signs of the disease.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
The NHS emphasises that meningitis and sepsis symptoms can appear in any order, and not all may be present. Early stages may lack a rash, or the rash may fade under pressure. It is crucial to seek immediate medical help if concerned, trusting instincts rather than waiting for all symptoms or a rash to develop.
Common symptoms in children include:
- High temperature – fever is often one of the first signs.
- Cold hands and feet – despite a fever, extremities may feel cold.
- Vomiting – sometimes accompanied by refusal to eat or drink.
- Rapid breathing – breathing may become fast or laboured.
- Skin changes – paleness, blotchiness, or a rash that may be harder to see on darker skin tones.
Additional Signs in Babies
Infants may exhibit specific symptoms such as refusing feeds, irritability, a high-pitched cry, body stiffness or floppiness, and a bulging soft spot on their head. Given that conditions can worsen rapidly, it is vital to act quickly.
If you suspect meningitis or sepsis, call 999 or go to the nearest A&E immediately. For advice if unsure, use NHS 111. The outbreak in Reading has already seen three other cases, with contacts offered antibiotics as a precaution.
