ASK YOUR PHARMACIST

Ask Your Pharmacist... Letters

On medicines, common ailments and other everyday health problems.

From The National Pharmaceutical Association.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - February 2005

Q : I heard recently about a child dying of meningitis. As I have a 3-year old and a 6 month old baby, can you help me to recognise the symptoms?

A: An increase in cases of meningitis is often seen at this time of year and you're very sensible to try to be prepared. Infants are already inoculated against meningitis C and the Hib form of the disease in the six-vaccine package given at two, three, and four months.

The Government is also considering adding a vaccine against pneumococcal infection, another cause of meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning), to the national immunisation programme. There is no vaccine against meningitis B, the most common form.

In babies, the warning symptoms are: • a high-pitched, moaning cry • a bulging fontanelle • being difficult to wake • floppy and listless or stiff with jerky movements • refusing feeds • rapid/unusual/difficult breathing • pale or blotchy skin • red or purple spots that do not fade under pressure.

In older children, the warning symptoms are: • a stiff neck • severe pain and aches in the back and joints • sleepiness or confusion • a very bad headache • a dislike of bright lights • very cold hands and feet • shivering • rapid breathing • red or purple spots that do not fade under pressure

You don't have to have all the symptoms for it to be meningitis. If you suspect that either of your children may have meningitis, seek medical help immediately - it's better to be safe than sorry. If you are unsure and happen to be near your local pharmacy, ask your pharmacist to help you. They will refer you to your doctor if there's any possibility that it could be serious in any way.

You can read about signs and symptoms on www. immunisation.nhs.uk. Other useful numbers are: Meningitis Research Foundation helpline: 080 8800 3344 Meningitis Trust helpline; 0845 6000 80

Gary Warner

Regent Pharmacy

Remember - people are different.

Some of the answers given above may not be right for you.

Ask your pharmacist when you need advice.