SPOTTING cases of meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia can be extremely difficult as the symptoms can be similar to those of influenza.

Incubation periods can vary but bacterial meningitis has been known to develop within the space of two hours.

Most cases of bacterial meningitis have an incubation period of between two and ten days, compared to a period of up to three weeks for viral cases.

Symptoms are hard to spot and some victims may only develop one or two of the recognised warning signs.

Adults and Children

High temperature/ fever sometimes with cold hands/feet

Vomiting

Diarrhoea

Severe headache

Stiff neck

Dislike of bright lights

Drowsiness

Joint or muscle pain

Rash in cases of septicaemia. If the spots do not disappear when pressed down with a glass or tumbler, contact a doctor immediately.

Babies

High temperature and fever

High pitched moaning or whimpering

A blank, staring expression

Pale and blotchy complexion

May be floppy or dislike being handled

Neck retraction and arched back

May be difficult to wake or lethargic

A vaccination against the group C strain of meningococcal disease is freely available on the NHS for the designated age groups.

The Meningitis Trust has awarded £4m to projects dedicated to researching the disease.

There is a free 24-hour nurse-led helpline on 0845 6000 800.