09/10/2026
Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by infections including bacteria and viruses, and some forms can become extremely serious very quickly.
Knowing the symptoms matters because meningitis and meningococcal disease can initially look similar to other common illnesses.
Symptoms can include:
✔️ A high temperature
✔️ Vomiting
✔️ A severe headache
✔️ A stiff neck
✔️ Dislike of bright lights
✔️ Confusion or unusual drowsiness
✔️ Seizures
✔️ A rash that does not fade when a clear glass is pressed against it
Not everyone will have every symptom, and a rash may not appear at all.
In babies and young children, signs can be different. They may be unusually sleepy or difficult to wake, irritable, refuse feeds, have a high pitched cry, become floppy or stiff, or develop a bulging soft spot on the head.
One of the important things to remember is that someone with meningitis can become seriously unwell quickly.
If you think someone may have meningitis or meningococcal disease, do not wait for all the symptoms to appear. Seek urgent medical help.
The NHS advises calling 999 if you or someone else has symptoms of meningitis and is seriously ill, particularly if there is a rapidly spreading rash, confusion, difficulty staying awake, seizures or other signs of severe illness.
Meningitis is not something to watch and wait with when someone is becoming seriously unwell.
Knowing the warning signs could help you act when it matters.
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