Meningitis may be caused by either virus or bacteria and is a very serious illness which, if not treated promptly can be fatal. There are several forms and some, but not all are preventable with vaccinations.
The rash which indicates a possible meningitis infection is the characteristic ‘non blanching’ rash. This rash presents as tiny red or brown pin prick spots which can enlarge and become purple blotches. If a child is ill showing symptoms such as fever, vomiting, excessive sleepiness, joint pains, headache, stiff neck and a rash you should do the ‘Glass Test’.
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Use a clear glass tumbler
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Place it on the skin next to the spots
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Apply pressure and roll the tumbler over the spots. As the glass is rolled over the skin around the spots the skin should go white as blood is pushed out of the vessels under the skin
If the spots fade as the glass is rolled over them the rash may not be serious, but keep checking if the child is ill.
If the spots don’t fade it is called a non-blanching rash and this needs urgent medical attention.
A fever with spots or a rash which does not fade under pressure needs urgent medical attention.
If you would like further information you can contact the Meningitis Research Foundation in Ireland on their freefone helpline 1800 41 33 44 or visit www.meningitis.org.
The following you tube video further describes meningitis and demonstrates the glass test.