The recent inquest into the death of a teenage girl from Nottingham has brought renewed attention to the devastating consequences of meningitis misdiagnosis. The teenager died just days before Christmas after being misdiagnosed and discharged from the hospital with what was thought to be a stomach bug, despite presenting symptoms that raised concerns about meningitis. The following day, ambulance technicians failed to take her back to the hospital, even though she showed clear red flags such as confusion and a severe headache.
The coroner heard that the teenager would likely have survived had she been admitted to the hospital sooner. Her parents, who bravely shared their experience during the inquest, expressed heartbreak over missed opportunities to save their daughter and the failure of NHS staff to act on warning signs. Her family’s courage has shone a light on the importance of recognising meningitis symptoms and acting swiftly. Having dealt with similar cases at Nelsons, we consider it crucial to highlight the important red flags of meningitis.
Recognising the signs of meningitis
Meningitis symptoms can develop suddenly and may appear in any order. Not all symptoms are always present, which makes early recognition and action critical. According to NHS and public health guidance, common signs include:
- High temperature (fever)
- Vomiting
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Sensitivity to bright lights
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Confusion or delirium
- Seizures (fits)
- Rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass
- Cold hands and feet
- Pale, blotchy or mottled skin
- Rapid breathing
- Muscle and joint pain
In babies, additional signs may include:
- Refusing feeds
- Irritability
- High-pitched crying
- Floppy or stiff body
- Bulging soft spot on the head
If you suspect meningitis, do not wait for all symptoms to appear—seek urgent medical help.
Who is most at risk of meningitis?
While meningitis can strike anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable:
- Babies and young children: Their immune systems are still developing, making them particularly susceptible. Babies under three months are at significantly higher risk.
- Teenagers and young adults: Especially those in close-contact environments like schools, universities, or student halls. Social behaviours and high carriage rates of meningococcal bacteria increase their risk.
- Older adults (65+): More prone to pneumococcal meningitis due to age-related immune decline.
- People with certain medical conditions: Including diabetes, coeliac disease, sickle cell disease, immunosuppression (e.g. chemotherapy or HIV), and those without a functioning spleen.
- Those living in crowded environments: Such as military barracks, refugee camps, or student accommodation.
Comment
The above story resonates deeply with the work we do at Nelsons. We have extensive experience supporting families through the most difficult times—particularly in cases involving fatal clinical negligence and representation at inquests.
We understand that families facing the loss of a loved one due to medical failings need more than legal advice—they need compassionate, expert support. We offer:
- Specialist representation at inquests, ensuring families’ voices are heard and critical questions are asked.
- Expertise in fatal claims, including those involving misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and systemic failures.
- A sensitive and thorough approach, recognising the emotional toll these cases take on families.
We work closely with medical experts to investigate what went wrong and pursue justice for those affected. Our goal is not only to secure compensation but also to help drive improvements in patient safety.
How we can help?
Carolle White is a Legal Director and Chartered Legal Executive in our expert Medical Negligence team, which is ranked in Tier One by the independently researched publication, The Legal 500, and Commended in The Times Best Law Firms 2025. Carolle specialises in high-value and complex medical negligence cases and inquests.
If you require any advice in relation to the subjects discussed in this article, please do not hesitate to contact Carolle or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester, or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form.
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