Meningitis Signs and Symptoms – Pharmacist’s Guide from Veritas Pharmacy

Recognising the early signs of meningitis can save lives. As a trusted community pharmacy in Sunderland, Veritas Pharmacy provides this practical guide to help you identify potential symptoms quickly and know when to act.

Meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can develop rapidly, so fast recognition is critical.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Meningitis

In adults and older children, look out for:

  • High fever with cold hands and feet
  • Severe headache
  • Stiff neck (difficulty touching chin to chest)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sensitivity to bright lights (photophobia)
  • Confusion, drowsiness, or difficulty waking up
  • Seizures (fits)
  • A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass (non-blanching rash)

The Glass Test: Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the rash. If the spots do not fade or disappear under pressure, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Meningitis Symptoms in Babies and Young Children

Babies may not show the classic signs. Watch for these red flags:

  • High-pitched moaning or crying
  • Unusual drowsiness or floppiness
  • Refusing feeds or vomiting
  • Bulging soft spot on the head (fontanelle)
  • Pale, blotchy skin or a non-blanching rash
  • Cold hands and feet with a high temperature
  • Rapid breathing or grunting

What to Do If You Suspect Meningitis

Meningitis can be life-threatening and requires urgent hospital treatment. If you or someone else shows any of these signs:

  • Call 999 or go to A&E immediately
  • Do not wait for a rash to appear — many cases of meningitis do not develop a rash

Early antibiotic treatment significantly improves outcomes.

Prevention and Vaccination

Vaccines offer excellent protection against several common causes of bacterial meningitis. At Veritas Pharmacy in Sunderland, we offer private meningitis vaccinations including:

  • MenACWY (for teens, students, and travellers)
  • MenB (Bexsero)

We also provide expert travel health consultations and a full range of travel vaccinations as an approved Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre.

Book a Consultation at Veritas Pharmacy

If you’re planning to travel, starting university, or simply want peace of mind, our trained pharmacists can advise you on the right vaccinations and protection.