MARCH 2006

Meningitis Alert in Donegal

People in Donegal are being urged to be alert to the signs and symptoms of meningitis. The Health Service Executive has confirmed that a patient was admitted on Friday to Letterkenny General Hospital with a diagnosis of the condition.

Public Health specialist, Dr. Anthony Breslin, said "All the individuals who came into contact with the patient are receiving antibiotics in accordance with national guidelines and others are being issued with information regarding the signs and symptoms of meningitis and what action to take if they have concerns."

The signs and symptoms to watch out for are: a high temperature, vomiting, severe headache and aches and pains. More specific symptoms include neck stiffness, an aversion to bright lights and drowsiness. A person with the illness may be difficult to waken and in some cases a rash may develop. The rash may start as little pinprick spots under the skin which look like bruising or blood clots under the skin. These do not go white or disappear if the side of a glass is pressed against them.

Small babies with the disease may be irritable and off their food, with a high temperature. The soft spot on the head may be tense or bulging, there may be vomiting and their cry may be high pitched. Their skin may be pale or blotching and the baby may be lethargic or floppy. All these symptoms will not occur together and the signs may be difficult to distinguish from other flu-like illnesses. A rapid change in what appeared to be a minor illness, however, should heighten concern. "Vigilance is importance and if in any doubt seek medical advice. Said a HSE spokesperson.

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