Meningitis: Symptoms to Watch Out for in Children

Meningitis can be fatal if treatment isn’t sought in time, so it’s important for parents to be aware of the symptoms to look out for in children.

Fever

One of the most common early signs of meningitis is a high fever over 38C. The fever may develop suddenly and rapidly rise. Fevers from meningitis tend to be higher than fevers from a simple viral infection. Any fever in a child under 5, particularly infants, warrants seeking urgent medical advice. This is something that will likely be covered by a first aid course you take as part of your training if you are fostering with an agency like Fostering People.

Headache & Stiff Neck

Headaches are common in older children with meningitis. The headache may be severe and unrelenting. Young children may show signs of irritability and be inconsolable. Along with a headache, children may develop neck stiffness, making it difficult to put their chin to their chest. Seek medical help if your child has a severe, persistent headache and neck pain.

Vomiting and Refusing Food

Vomiting and refusing food are possible signs of meningitis, as children may experience nausea. Vomiting is more common in viral meningitis while babies with bacterial meningitis may refuse feeds or vomit after feeds. Persistent vomiting and lethargy are red flags for meningitis.

Rash

A distinctive rash is a telltale sign of meningitis that requires urgent assessment. With bacterial meningitis, a rash may first appear as small, red pinpricks and develop into larger purplish blotches. The rash does not fade under pressure. Go straight to A&E if your child develops any kind of new rash accompanied by fever.

Sleepiness and Irritability

Children with meningitis tend to become increasingly sleepy and difficult to wake. Young infants may be limp and lethargic. Older children become disinterested, confused, and inactive. Irritability, crying, and moaning are other possible signs. Marked drowsiness or personality changes in a child with a fever should prompt immediate action.

Sensitivity to Light

Children with meningitis may develop a sensitivity to bright lights. They can also experience pins and needles sensations. Babies may shriek or moan when exposed to normal levels of light. Watch for unusual reactions to light combined with other symptoms.

Seizures

Seizures or convulsions can occur in the most serious cases of meningitis. Seizures are more common in young children under 2 years old. Any seizure or spasm-like movement in a child with other meningitis symptoms is an emergency.

Pale or Mottled Skin

Skin changes like paleness, mottling, and cold hands and feet can indicate meningitis, as the infection causes blood flow issues. Check your child’s skin colour, especially on the abdomen, thighs, and hands. Paleness or an unusual mottled or blotchy rash are reasons to seek urgent help.

Grunting or Moaning

Young babies may respond to meningitis infection by grunting or moaning. Listen for unusual moaning combined with the above symptoms. Babies with meningitis tend to be extremely irritable and inconsolable.

Unusual Cry

A high-pitched or unusual cry can be associated with meningitis. Babies may cry in a different tone than normal. Listen for a wailing, moaning, or high-pitched cry, particularly if it is persistent.

Trust Your Instincts

Listen to your gut if you suspect something is wrong with your child, even if the symptoms are vague. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital with meningitis. Go to A&E or call 999 if your child has a fever plus any of the above symptoms. Meningitis can progress rapidly in hours, so prompt medical assessment is critical.