An optician has highlighted four little-known signs of meningitis that can appear in the eyes, warning that these symptoms are often overlooked. Krina Halai, dispensing optician at Feel Good Contacts, said that while many focus on classic signs like a rash or stiff neck, early warning signs can be subtle and mistaken for flu or migraines.
The symptoms include sensitivity to light (photophobia), blurred vision, double vision, and involuntary eye movements. Photophobia occurs because meningitis causes inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord, irritating nerves connected to the eyes. This can make light feel painful and lead to excessive squinting, difficulty focusing, and severe headaches.
Meningitis Now warns that visual problems caused by meningitis can be permanent. The charity explains that the optic nerve carries visual signals to the brain, and meningitis can damage this nerve, resulting in vision loss or changes in visual perception. While some temporary changes may resolve once pressure on the optic nerve reduces, any lasting damage is likely to be permanent.
The alert comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed a meningitis outbreak in Kent, with nine laboratory-confirmed cases and 11 under investigation as of March 17. Six cases are group B meningococcal disease, and two people—a sixth-form student and a university student—have died. One person who lived in Kent also presented to a London hospital with the illness.
The NHS advises that symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include fever, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, drowsiness, confusion, and a rash that does not fade under a glass. The NHS urges people to call 999 or go to A&E immediately if meningitis or sepsis is suspected, warning not to wait for all symptoms or a rash to appear.
