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What should I do if I suspect meningitis?

If someone is ill and getting worse, do not wait for a rash as symptoms can appear in any order and some may not appear at all, so get medical help urgently. If you can’t get in touch with your doctor, or are still worried after getting advice, trust your instincts and go to the emergency department of your nearest hospital. 

Someone with a fever and a rash that does not fade under pressure needs urgent medical attention. You can use the glass test to check whether a rash fades under pressure.  

Meningitis glass test 

  • Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin. 
  • Spots or a rash (or both) may fade at first.  
  • Keep checking.  
  • Fever with spots or a rash (or both) that do not fade under pressure is a medical emergency. 
  • If your child is ill and getting worse, get medical help immediately.  
  • On dark skin, the spots or rash can be more difficult to see. 

For more information, see www.meningitisnow.org (external site) or call the Meningitis Now helpline on 0808 80 10 388.