Gloucestershire meningitis campaign

9th February 2012, 06:00

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Gloucester mum, Debbie Massey, whose son Jack contracted meningitis, is calling for people to be aware of all the signs and symptoms of the disease.

The Meningitis Trust has found that up to 34 million adults in the UK are risking death through the mistaken belief that the main symptom of meningitis is a rash. As the country finds itself in the peak season for the devastating disease, the national charity is campaigning to stop this deadly misconception.The Trust is worried to find that 71% of people immediately think of a rash when identifying meningitis – that is why it is hammering home the message ‘Don’t Wait for a Rash’. It is also concerned to find that a further 5.3 million adults in the UK cannot name a single sign or symptom.Debbie is urging Gloucestershire to be aware of the symptoms after her son, Jack, contracted meningitis at 5 weeks. “Jack had a high pitched scream, and didn’t want to eat or be touched. I didn’t know it was meningitis at the time but I knew that there was something seriously wrong. I didn't even bother with an ambulance; we just went straight to the hospital.” Luckily Jack, now 5, has recovered. However, if Debbie had not trusted her instincts, this could have been a different story. Knowing and recognising the other signs and symptoms of meningitis and getting medical help quickly are vital in reducing the devastating impact meningitis can have. Symptoms can appear quickly and rapid deterioration is a sign of a medical emergency. Meningitis can start with ‘flu-like’ symptoms. Those to look out for are a fever, headache, vomiting and muscle pain. Other symptoms can include fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and seizures. In babies, symptoms can include being floppy and unresponsive, dislike of being handled, rapid breathing, a moaning cry and a bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the top of the head). To combat the deadly myth, Debbie and the charity are urging everyone to be aware of all the symptoms. Information is provided free by the Meningitis Trust. You can download one of its free smart phone apps available at www.meningitisapp.co.uk, visit www.meningitis-trust.org , or call its freephone 24-hour nurse-led helpline on 0800 028 18 28 and request information or a free signs and symptoms card.