What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

It’s most common in babies, children and teenagers – but anyone can get it.

If not treated promptly, it can lead to septicaemia (blood poisoning), resulting in brain damage or even death.

Meningitis is usually viral or bacterial, but there are many other forms:

• Meningococcal - meningitis and blood poisoning.
• Pneumococcal meningitis – caused by bacteria called streptococcus pneumoniae.
• TB meningitis – where the infection usually begins in the lungs.
• Group B strep – the most common cause found in babies.
• Neonatal meningitis – occurring in the first 28 days of life.
• E. coli meningitis – the second most common form of bacterial neonatal meningitis.

Bacterial meningitis needs fast admission to hospital and treatment with antibiotics.

Viral meningitis isn’t usually life threatening, but it can have some serious after-effects.

What are the symptoms of meningitis?

It’s essential to seek treatment fast as symptoms can develop rapidly, including:

• Fever – cold hands and feet
• Rash / blotchy skin that doesn’t fade when pressed or put under pressure
• Vomiting / diarrhoea
• Muscle pain
• Stomach cramps
• Drowsiness or floppiness
• Severe headache

When can you claim for meningitis misdiagnosis?

Failure to recognise the symptoms of meningitis can lead to long term health problems, disability and even death. Delays can cost a person’s health as the disease can spread so rapidly.

You may have a medical negligence claim if we can prove:

• Delayed diagnosis
• Failure to carry out tests
• Delays in beginning treatment
• Incorrect diagnosis or misdiagnosis

More about making a claim

How can First4Lawyers help?

It can be difficult to prove delays and errors, but our medical negligence solicitors have lots of experience in dealing with this type of claim.

We will build you case and support you all the way – making sure you understand any medical or legal jargon that crops up. Hopefully, we can help ease some of the stress during what it already an extremely worrying time.

How much compensation will I receive?

That very much depends on the impact of the negligence and how it has affected you. Our experts are here to build a case and negotiate the best settlement possible.

Have a chat to one of our legal advisors, who will be able to advise you based on your personal circumstances.

Is there a time limit for making a claim?

Generally, you have three years to make a claim, from the date you became aware of the negligence. The rules are different for children under 18 and those with limited mental capacity.

I think I have a claim, what do I do next?

Get in touch with us – consultation is free. We’ll ask you about your situation and advise you of your options, including No Win No Fee agreements for medical negligence claims in England and Wales.