OTC - meningitis

Question 1

Symptoms?

Answer 1

• non-blanching rash (pale blotchy skin with widespread bruises which does not fade when pressed against a glass tumbler)
• flu-like symptoms
• high fever
• severe muscle aches
• N+V
• stiff neck
• severe headache
• cold hands and feet
• confusion, drowsiness
• photophobia
• seizures

Question 2

Symptoms in infants?

Answer 2

• floppiness/unresponsive
• dislike being handled
• refuse feeds
• difficult to wake
• rapid breathing/grunting
• unusual cry or moan
• bulging fontanelle (skull)

Question 3

Action?

Answer 3

ALL SUSPECTED CASES REQUIRE IMMEDIATE HOSPITAL ADMISSION

Question 4

OTC products?

Answer 4

• viral meningitis does not require hospital treatment (usually mild, can be treated at home and has spontaneous recovery)
• symptomatic relief - paracetamol/ibuprofen

Question 5

Advice?

Answer 5

• trust gut instincts, dont wait until a rash develops

- bacterial meningitis is life-threatening and may cause blood poisoning and may necessitate limb amputations

Question 6

Which of the following is NOT a symtpom of meningitis?
A) dislike of bright lights
B) severe headache
C) cold hands and feet
D) non-blanching rash
E) floppy neck

Answer 6

E - floppy neck

A stiff neck is a classic symptom - parents can ask their child to place their chin on their chest; if there is pain immediate referral is needed