- Meningitis and sepsis symptoms can appear in any order, and not all may be present, with early stages potentially lacking a rash or showing one that fades under pressure.
- NHS guidance states it is crucial to seek immediate medical help if concerned, trusting instincts rather than waiting for all symptoms or a rash to develop.
- Common symptoms include high temperature, cold hands and feet, vomiting, rapid breathing and skin changes like paleness or a rash, which may be harder to see on darker skin tones.
- Babies may also exhibit specific signs such as refusing feeds, irritability, a high-pitched cry, body stiffness or floppiness, and a bulging soft spot on their head.
- Given that conditions can worsen rapidly, call 999 or go to the nearest A&E immediately for suspected meningitis or sepsis, or use NHS 111 for advice if unsure.
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