Be on the alert for Meningococcal Disease, says HPA North West

26 January 2009

Dr. Catherine Quigley, the Health Protection Agency North West's Regional Epidemiologist, is warning that this time of the year brings a peak in meningococcal infection and everyone should be aware of its symptoms.

"Meningococcal disease is not always easy to detect, but we are keen to ensure that everyone should have a basic knowledge of the signs to look out for and be prepared to take urgent action when they recognise them," Dr. Quigley said.

"Our advice is that that there is nothing to worry about, but if you suspect that someone has meningococcal disease, call the doctor immediately. If the doctor isn't available, take the patient to the nearest Accident and Emergency Department. Prompt action is vital."

The advice is being issued after new figures reveal that 56 cases of meningococcal infection were recorded in the North West Region in a six week period covering December 2008 and the first two weeks in January.

"We tend to see more cases in the winter months and particularly when flu is around, as people with flu are more susceptible to meningococcal infection. We've seen more flu cases this year than in recent years and that may be one reason why the meningococcal figures appear to be higher than usual," Dr. Quigley said.

Meningococcal infection is caused by the bacterium (germ) meningococcus. It can result in meningitis (inflammation of the brain lining) and/or septicaemia (blood poisoning). Infection can occur at any age, though most cases are recorded in children under four years old. Teenagers up to age 19 are the next most vulnerable group.

Early symptoms of the disease may include:

• A rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass (due to bleeding under the skin).
• Sudden onset of high fever
• A severe and worsening headache (without any other obvious cause)
• Severe neck stiffness
• Dislike of bright lights (photophobia)
• Very cold hands and feet
• Drowsiness that can deteriorate into a fever

Babies with meningococcal disease tend to be irritable when picked up and have a high pitched cry, stiff body and jerking movements.

"The symptoms are not always present and this can be a problem, particularly in identifying the disease in babies and very young children. If a baby is obviously ill or distressed, parents should seek medical help immediately. Don't take a chance with a child's health," Dr. Quigley said.

Further information on meningococcal infection is available from:

• The Meningitis Trust on 0845-6000-800 or at www.meningitis-trust.org
• Meningitis Research Foundation on 0808-800-3344 or www.meningitis.org
• NHS Direct, the 24-hour nurse advice and health information service on 0845-4647

Note to editors

Table: Confirmed meningococcal infections by region weeks 2008-49 to 2009-02

52 of the 56 cases confirmed in the North West Region since the beginning of December were Group B meningococcal infection for which no vaccine is currently available. However, the Vaccines Evaluation Unit at the HPA Regional Laboratory in Manchester is collaborating with the pharmaceutical company Novartis in the evaluation of a vaccine that could be available in the next three to four years, or perhaps sooner. It is hoped that this vaccine will protect against the strains that cause 80% of meningococcal Group B infections.

A very effective vaccine against meningococcal C infection has been available since 1999 and all parents and guardians are strongly advised to ensure that their children have the lifelong protection it affords against that particular disease. The vaccine is available to anyone up to the age of 25.

Press release issued by Hugh Lamont, Communications Manager, HPA North West, tel. 0151-482-5728 or 07764-906508.

Last reviewed: 26 January 2009