Meningitis: Action, Information and preparation

In all seriousness, this is probably something that we, as schools, fear most. 

Meningitis develops quickly, can be serious, and often begins with symptoms that resemble common childhood viruses. 

However, as with any First-Aid Room issue, with proper awareness, clear procedures, and strong communication, you and your colleagues can respond confidently and appropriately. 

Here's what we need to know about meningitis symptoms in children, how to identify early signs and what school guidance on meningitis typically includes. 

1. Understanding meningitis: the basics

❓ Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord.

➡️ It can be caused by viruses (more common and usually less severe) or bacteria (rare but more serious).

Children can deteriorate quickly, so early recognition and rapid action are essential. While schools are not expected to diagnose meningitis, understanding warning signs helps staff act fast and inform parents accurately.

2. Early signs of meningitis

Many early signs resemble those of the flu or winter bugs, which is why vigilance is so necessary. Symptoms can appear in any order, and not every child will have all of them.

Early symptoms may include:

➡️ Fever.

➡️ Headache.

➡️ Vomiting.

➡️ Cold hands and feet.

➡️ Muscle pain.

➡️ Pale, blotchy or mottled skin. 

Some children may seem “not themselves” — unusually tired, confused, or difficult to rouse.

3. More serious or advanced symptoms

If a child develops any of the following symptoms, staff should seek urgent medical help and contact parents immediately:

4. What to do if meningitis is suspected

Every school should have clear steps in place, even though suspected cases are rare.

Recommended actions include:

1. Stay with the child and monitor breathing, responsiveness, and symptoms.

2. Call parents/carers immediately and advise them to seek urgent medical advice (from a GP, NHS 111, or emergency services if the condition is severe).

3. Call emergency services if the child shows severe symptoms such as altered consciousness, a non-blanching rash, breathing difficulties, or seizures.

4. Record symptoms and actions taken in your school’s health and safety system.

5. Follow the local health protection team's guidance if a confirmed case is later reported — they will advise on communication, next steps, and whether close contacts require any precautionary treatment.

Schools are not expected to diagnose, treat, or confirm meningitis — the key is rapid recognition and escalation to the appropriate level of care.

5. Preparing staff and parents/carers

Vaccinations (such as MenACWY and MenB) help protect children, but not all forms of meningitis are preventable — so awareness remains essential.

Schools can strengthen preparation by:

• Training staff annually on early symptoms

• Displaying symptom reminder posters in staffrooms

• Providing clear absence and illness guidance to families

• Keeping accurate contact details for all parents

• Ensuring incidents are logged promptly and reviewed

Consistent messaging reassures families that the school is well-prepared and proactive in its approach.