Know the Signs of Meningitis and Sepsis: The Glass Test Rash and Other Symptoms
- Christopher Cook
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Recent reports of a meningitis outbreak in Kent have raised serious concern across the UK after several people sadly lost their lives. Situations like this remind us why recognising the signs of serious illness quickly is so important.
Meningitis and sepsis can progress rapidly. What may begin with symptoms that appear similar to flu can quickly develop into a life threatening emergency.
Knowing the warning signs and acting early can make a critical difference. Early medical treatment can save lives.
This article explains the key symptoms to look for, what the well known “glass test” means, and when to seek urgent medical help.
What Are Meningitis and Sepsis?
Meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Sepsis is a life threatening reaction to infection where the body’s immune response begins to damage its own tissues and organs. You can read more detail about sepsis on our recent blog.
Both conditions can develop rapidly and require urgent medical attention.
Although meningitis and sepsis can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk, including:
babies and young children
teenagers and young adults
older adults
people with weakened immune systems
In some cases meningitis can lead to sepsis, which makes recognising the symptoms particularly important.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Symptoms of meningitis or sepsis may appear suddenly and can worsen quickly.
Common symptoms include:
a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
sudden onset of high fever
severe and worsening headache
stiff neck
vomiting and diarrhoea
joint and muscle pain
dislike of bright lights
very cold hands and feet
seizures
confusion or delirium
extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking
Not every person will develop all of these symptoms. However, if several symptoms appear together, especially alongside fever or confusion, urgent medical advice should be sought.
The “Glass Test” Rash
One of the most widely recognised warning signs associated with meningococcal infection is a rash that does not fade when pressure is applied.
This is sometimes called the “glass test”.
When a clear glass is pressed against the skin:
a normal rash usually fades under pressure
a meningitis rash typically does not fade
The rash may appear as red or purple spots or bruised looking patches under the skin. This occurs because of bleeding into the skin from damaged blood vessels.
It is important to remember that the rash does not always appear early, and sometimes may not appear at all. This means you should never wait for a rash to develop before seeking help if someone is seriously unwell.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
If you or someone you know develops symptoms that could indicate meningitis or sepsis, it is important to seek help immediately.
You should call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if someone has:
a rash that does not fade under pressure
seizures
confusion or delirium
difficulty waking or extreme drowsiness
severe illness with rapidly worsening symptoms
You can also contact your GP or call NHS 111 if you are concerned. However, if someone is very unwell or symptoms are worsening quickly, do not delay calling 999.
If a friend or family member goes to bed feeling unwell, it is important to check on them regularly.
Early treatment can be lifesaving.
Why Awareness Matters
Many serious medical emergencies occur in everyday environments such as homes, schools, workplaces, and community settings.
In most situations the first people present are not medical professionals. They are friends, colleagues, parents, or members of the public.
This is why public awareness of serious illness symptoms is so important. Recognising when someone may be critically unwell allows emergency services to be contacted quickly and treatment to begin sooner.
Knowledge, confidence, and the ability to recognise warning signs are key parts of effective first aid.
Learning First Aid Can Help You Respond With Confidence
Understanding how to recognise serious illness is an important part of first aid training.
At DTMK Training Services in Milton Keynes we teach learners how to recognise and respond to a wide range of medical emergencies, including:
severe allergic reactions
cardiac arrest
choking
serious bleeding
unconsciousness
seizures
signs of life threatening illness
Our courses are delivered by experienced instructors using realistic training equipment and supportive teaching methods.
The aim is simple: helping people leave with the knowledge and confidence to act when someone needs help.
First Aid Training in Milton Keynes with DTMK Training Services
DTMK Training Services is a family run training provider based in Bletchley, Milton Keynes.
We deliver regulated first aid qualifications through Qualsafe Awards and provide training for workplaces, community groups, and individuals.
Courses can be delivered at our training centre or at workplace venues across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, and surrounding areas.
Learning these skills ensures that more people in our communities are prepared to respond when emergencies occur.
Because in a real emergency, the first person who can help is often simply the person who is nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I suspect meningitis?
If someone has symptoms of meningitis or sepsis and appears seriously unwell, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
Does the rash always appear?
No. The rash may appear later in the illness or may not appear at all. Never wait for a rash before seeking medical help.
Can adults get meningitis?
Yes. Although meningitis is often associated with children, it can affect people of any age.
Is the glass test reliable?
The glass test can help identify a rash that does not fade under pressure. However, the absence of a rash does not rule out meningitis or sepsis.
Learn Life Saving Skills
If you would like to learn how to recognise and respond to medical emergencies, our regulated first aid courses are open to individuals and workplaces.
📞 01908 112111
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