Meningitis

Question 1

Meningitis causes

Answer 1

Caused by bacteria:
Streptococcus pneumonia
Neisseria meningitidis

Question 2

Meningitis symptoms

Answer 2

Purpuric, non-blanching rash (the rash would not fade when pressed against a glass tumbler)
Stiff neck
Severe headache
Confusion
Drowsiness
Seizures
Photophobia
cold hands and feet

In infants
- floppiness
- Difficult to wake
- Refusing to feed

Question 3

Meningitis referral

Answer 3

All suspected cases must be referred immediately to A&E

Question 4

OTC treatment

Answer 4

Paracetamol, Ibuprofen

Viral meningitis does not require hospital treatment as it is usually mild in symptoms

Question 5

Meningitis complications

Answer 5

Blood poisoning, may lead to septicaemia and possible limbs amputations