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One or more of the following symptoms may occur. But note: not all symptoms may occur. For example, the classic symptoms of neck stiffness and rash may not occur. If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia - get medical help immediately.

Common early warning symptoms

Many children who are developing meningitis or septicaemia have 'non-specific' symptoms such as just feeling or looking generally unwell. However, three symptoms that commonly develop early on - often before the more classic symptoms listed later - are:

• Leg pains. The pains can become severe and prevent a child from standing or walking.
• Cold hands or feet - even if the child has a high temperature.
• Pale, dusky or blue colour of the skin around the lips.

Rash - commonly occurs, but not always

The rash is red or purple. Small spots develop at first and may occur in groups anywhere on the body. They often grow to become blotchy and look like little bruises. One or two may develop at first but many may then appear in different parts of the body. The spots / blotches do not fade when pressed (unlike many other rashes). To check for this do the tumbler test. Place a clear glass (tumbler) firmly on one of the spots or blotches. If the spot / blotch does not fade and you can still see it through the glass, get medical help immediately. (Note: a rash does not occur in all cases of meningitis and septicaemia but can be quite characteristic when it does occur.)

- Next: More symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia

More help and advice

- Get expert advice about a simple test for meningitis
- Tips on coping with life after meningitis
- Meningitis doesn't just happen in young children: read a real-life story

By Rob Mansfield

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• Next: Other meningitis symptoms

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