4 possible cases of meningococcal meningitis have been identified in Ireland.
Families have been urged to ensure that their children’s meningitis vaccines are up to date after four cases were identified in Ireland recently.
The HSE has called on parents to make sure their children’s MenB vaccines are up to date.
They recently identified four cases of meningococcal meningitis in Ireland.
The HSE has stressed that vaccines are the best way to protect your child from meningitis. Unfortunately, vaccines don’t prevent all types of meningitis so parents must be aware of the symptoms.
Doctors have stressed that early detection is key. Treating meningitis quickly is also essential so you should always alert your doctor if you’re concerned.
But what are the symptoms?
The main symptoms of meningitis include a rash, neck and head stiffness, sensitivity to light, and stomach issues including diarrhea.
Patients may also have pale or bluish skin, trouble breathing as well as a high temperature.
If you’re concerned that your child has a meningitis rash then you should carry out the glass test.
You simply place a glass tumbler against the area of the skin where the rash is present. If the rash doesn’t fade when you press the glass against it then contact your doctor immediately.
You can read more about the symptoms here.
