St John Ambulance Please note: Any deviation from the slides contained in the original presentation are not sanctioned by St John Ambulance. Individuals will be held personally liable for any information on additional slides added to this presentation.

MENINGITIS

Meningitis By the end of this session you will be able to: identify what meningitis is and how to recognise it know what to do if you suspect a casualty has meningitis

Meningitis Meningitis is an infection of the meninges - the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord Viral meningitis is the most common Bacterial meningitis is less common but extremely serious Fungal meningitis is rare.

Meningitis Key things to look for are: Flu-like illness with a temperature Cold hands and feet Joint and limb pain Blotchy or very pale skin. If someone has meningitis, they won’t usually show all the symptoms and signs at the same time.

Meningitis As the meningitis infection develops: Severe headache Neck stiffness Vomiting Eyes become sensitive to light Drowsiness. In babies there may be a high-pitched moaning or whimpering cry, floppiness, and a tense, bulging soft spot on their head (fontanelle).

Meningitis Later you may see a distinctive rash of red or purple spots that doesn’t fade when pressed.

Meningitis What you need to do If you suspect a casualty has meningitis call 999 or 112 straight away and treat the fever Check the them for a sign of a rash While you’re waiting for help to arrive, reassure them and keep them cool Keep checking their breathing, and level of response.