Skip to main content
Vaccine Hub offers general information only. Please see a healthcare professional for medical advice.
FAQ

What are the symptoms of meningococcal disease?

Page last updated 19 January 2022

Meningococcal disease is potentially fatal, urgent medical advice at the nearest hospital is advised if someone displays symptoms of the infections.

Meningitis:

  • stiff neck
  • fever
  • headache
  • photophobia (eyes being more sensitive to light)
  • nausea/vomiting
  • confusion
  • poor eating/drinking, low alertness and vomiting (babies)

Septicaemia:

  • fever
  • fatigue
  • vomiting
  • chills
  • cold hands and feet
  • severe aches or pains
  • rapid breathing
  • diarrhoea
  • a dark purple rash in the later stages

Sources & Citations

8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meningococcal disease – Signs and symptoms. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/meningococcal/about/symptoms.html (accessed December 2021).

 

MAT-AU2102477  Date of preparation January 2022

Related