A microbiologist has urged people to pay attention to meningitis symptoms that predate a rash following this week’s outbreak.
Dr Sinead O’ Donnell, a consultant microbiologist, told RTE’s Morning Ireland that while rashes are the most common symptom of the disease, they often present much later, making treatment difficult. She urged people to be vigilant of symptoms that typically occur at an earlier stage of the illness, such as muscle pain, discomfort when in bright light, and a stiff neck.
There have been three confirmed cases and an additional suspected infection reported this week, all which have presented in young adults and one child. The illnesses occurred around different parts of the country and are not related to each other.
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She told RTE: “This is not considered an outbreak. These are what we call sporadic cases that are not connected. However, it is always concerning when we see people having a meningococcal infection and very sadly loss of life due to it.”
She added that not all meningitis patients necessarily develop a rash due to the virus. She also said that the above symptoms could easily be dismissed as other conditions, such as flu or migraines, and that seeking medical advice was crucial.
October 5 coincidentally marked World Meningitis Day. The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland set up an information booth on college grounds providing people with further information about the disease and available support services. The HSE has launched an investigation into the rise in cases.
There are an estimated 2.5 million cases of meningitis reported each year. The condition most commonly occurs in babies, young adults aged 16-24 and people over 65. 1 in 5 of all survivors of the disease often suffer long term effects such as brain damage or hearing loss.
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