CALL 911
This is a life-threatening emergency. Call 911 immediately, then follow these steps while waiting for help.
Meningitis Emergency Signs
Content reviewed against published AAP, CDC, WHO guidelines
Last reviewed:
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Bacterial meningitis can progress rapidly and is life-threatening. Early recognition and immediate medical care are critical.
Immediate actions
- Call 911 immediately
- Call 911 or go to the nearest ER immediately — meningitis can progress in hours
- DO NOT: Do NOT wait for all symptoms to appear before seeking help
Step-by-Step Response
Recognize symptoms
Look for: high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, vomiting, sensitivity to light, bulging fontanelle (in infants), drowsiness, irritability, poor feeding, and/or rash.
Check for rash
Press a clear glass against any rash. If the rash does not fade (non-blanching), this is a sign of meningococcal septicemia — a medical emergency.
Call 911 or go to ER
Do not wait. Bacterial meningitis can cause brain damage or death within hours. Time is critical.
Keep child comfortable
Dim the lights. Support the child in a comfortable position. Keep them warm. Do not force fluids if vomiting.
Prepare information for doctors
Note when symptoms started, recent illnesses, vaccinations, and any medications given. This helps doctors act quickly.
Monitor closely
Watch for worsening symptoms: increasing drowsiness, seizures, difficulty breathing, or spreading rash. Report all changes immediately.
What NOT to Do
- ✕Do NOT wait for all symptoms to appear before seeking help
- ✕Do NOT give aspirin to children
- ✕Do NOT expose child to bright lights if they appear light-sensitive
- ✕Do NOT assume it is just the flu — meningitis can mimic viral illness early on
- ✕Do NOT delay seeking care because your child "seems a little better"
When to Seek Help
Call 911 if:
- Non-blanching rash (does not fade when pressed with a glass)
- Child is extremely drowsy, difficult to wake, or unresponsive
- Seizures
- Stiff neck with fever
- Bulging fontanelle in an infant with fever
- Rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
Go to ER if:
- Any suspected meningitis — do not wait for a doctor appointment
- Child has fever with vomiting and neck stiffness
- Infant under 3 months with fever above 100.4F (38C)
- Child has fever with a new rash that does not fade
- Child is increasingly confused or difficult to rouse
Call your doctor if:
- Child has high fever with unusual irritability or lethargy
- Infant is refusing feeds and has a fever
- Child complains of severe headache with stiff neck
- You are concerned about possible meningitis but symptoms are mild
Age-Specific Guidance
0-3 months
Symptoms are often vague: poor feeding, irritability, high-pitched cry, bulging fontanelle, and fever or hypothermia. Newborns are at highest risk for Group B Strep meningitis. Any fever in this age requires immediate evaluation.
3-12 months
May show fever, irritability, vomiting, poor feeding, and drowsiness. Neck stiffness may be difficult to detect. Bulging fontanelle is a key sign. Hib and pneumococcal vaccines significantly reduce risk.
1-5 years
Classic symptoms become more apparent: fever, headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, and light sensitivity. The "glass test" for non-blanching rash is important. Ensure meningococcal vaccines are up to date.
Prevention
- Keep vaccinations up to date — Hib, pneumococcal (PCV13), and meningococcal vaccines prevent bacterial meningitis
- Teach good hand hygiene to prevent spread of infections
- Avoid sharing cups, utensils, or toothbrushes
- Ensure close contacts receive prophylactic antibiotics if exposed to bacterial meningitis
- Seek prompt treatment for ear and sinus infections which can rarely spread
Frequently asked questions
Should I call 911 for meningitis emergency signs?
What should I do first?
What should I NOT do?
How can I prevent this?
Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Emergency Guides
Bottom line
This is a serious emergency. Always call 911 first, then follow the steps above while help is on the way.
You are doing the right thing by learning what to do in an emergency. Being prepared is one of the best things you can do for your child.