- If you suspect meningitis and septicaemia get medical help immediately
- If someone falls ill check for the symptoms. If they have a rash, do the Tumbler Test.
- Remember that a very ill person needs medical help even if there is no rash, or one that fades.
What are meningitis and septicaemia?
- Meningitis causes a swelling of the lining around the brain and spinal cord.
- Septicaemia is the blood poisoning and more life threatening form of the disease.
- Meningitis and septicaemia can occur together or separately.
Who is most at risk?
The diseases are uncommon.
They can affect anyone of any age, but some age groups are affected more than others:
Tumbler test for septicaemia
If a glass tumbler is pressed firmly against a septicaemic rash, the marks will not fade. You will be able to see the rash through the glass. If this happens get medical advice immediately. It is harder to see on dark skin, so check paler areas. Remember someone who is very ill needs medical help even if they have no rash or a rash that fades.
Picture courtesy Prof P Brandtzaeg