Meningitis
What is it?	Meningitis is a painful infection of the lining of the brain. These two types are the most common: Viral meningitis tends to be less severe and does not require treatment; Bacterial meningitis (e.g. meningococcal) is much more serious and can kill without treatment! Knowing the signs of meningitis is important. The earlier you spot it the easier it is to get better.
Symptoms Babies and Toddlers: Early signs. High temperature or fever, refusing feeds, vomiting (being sick) or diarrhoea (the runs), fretfulness, dislike of being handled, blank expression, neck stiffness, rash of tiny red-purple spots anywhere on the body. If you press a glass against the rash it does not fade. Late signs. Child is difficult to wake, high pitched moaning cry, pale or blotchy skin, widespread red-purple rash on the body. These symptoms may not all be present or appear at the same time. Older children and adults: Early signs. High temperature or fever, vomiting, headache, neck stiffness, back or joint pains, dislike of bright lights, confusion, drowsiness, tiny red-purple spots anywhere on the body. If you press a glass against the rash it does not fade. Late signs. Difficult to wake, pale and clammy (hot and damp), widespread red-purple rash. Even experienced doctors can miss meningitis. If you are worried ask for advice again.
Treatment	The risk of catching meningitis is very low. But if you suspect meningitis seek medical attention immediately. If your own doctor is not available go straight to the nearest hospital with a casualty department and describe the symptoms carefully and clearly. It is the early diagnosis (working out what is wrong) and treatment that is the most important. Doctors use medicines called antibiotics for bacterial meningitis. There is a vaccine that can be given for some sorts of meningitis.
How do you catch it?	Meningitis is spread through the air by coughing, sneezing and kissing. It is difficult to catch from other people. The germs live naturally at the back of the nose and throat, and many of us carry them all the time without becoming ill.

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