WITH the clocks now gone back and the prospect of colder winter weather, the risk of meningitis increases. People spend more time indoors, closer to others, meaning germs are spread more easily, and fighting common infections like colds and flu weakens people’s immune systems, leaving them more vulnerable to the disease.

Each year there are about 2,000 cases of bacterial meningitis in the UK, leaving ten per cent of sufferers dead and a third of those who survive with after-effects such as brain damage, loss of hearing and sight and, where septicaemia has occurred, loss of limbs and scarring.

It’s a disease which can kill in hours, so knowledge of the symptoms, vigilance and quick action are all vital.

Babies and children under five are most at risk of meningitis, with more than half of all cases occurring in this age group.

But the disease can affect anyone, of any age, at any time. Even those who consider themselves fit and healthy may be left fighting for their life in a matter of hours.

Meningitis is a difficult disease to spot as many of its early symptoms can be similar to flu. These can include fever with cold hands and feet, vomiting, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright light, joint or muscle pain, pale blotchy skin, drowsiness, confusion and, in babies, a dislike of being handled, an unusual cry, rapid breathing and bulging fontanelle.

Both adults and children may have a rash that does not fade under pressure, but advice from Meningitis Now is not to wait for a rash to develop before seeking medical attention.

Download Meningitis Now’s free symptoms apps or request a credit-card sized symptoms card from our website at www.meningitisnow.org

Dr Tom Nutt, Chief executive, Meningitis Now