diseases-and-disorders > what-is-meningitis

2-10 days, but it normally develops within a week. Meningococcal disease is both cyclical and seasonal. The UK is currently within a period of high incidence, and the peak time for infections is October-March.

Symptoms

Early recognition and treatment of the meningococcal infection is the best route to a good recovery. The early signs can be non-specific and similar to 'flu, or a really bad hangover, but someone with meningococcal septicaemia will deteriorate more rapidly than a person with 'flu. The symptoms to look out for are:

Severe headache
Stiff neck
Dislike of bright lights
Fever/vomiting
Drowsiness/impaired consciousness
Rash that will not fade if subjected to pressure (but not in all cases) - the pictured tumbler test is a means of assessing this; press a glass against the skin and if the rash remains visible, seek help
Septicaemia
Rash
Fever/vomiting (but not in all cases)
Cold hands and feet
Rapid breathing
Joint/muscle/abdominal pain which may be accompanied by diarrhoea
Drowsiness/impaired consciousness

These symptoms can appear in any order and not everyone will develop all these symptoms, so if there is any doubt at all medical assistance should be sought as quickly as possible.

(published with permission in writing from:http://www.nusonline.co.uk)