Health experts warn against self-medicating children

With flu season in full effect, it is easy to self-medicate, which can often lead to misdiagnosis.

In an article published by Daily Mail, an American family is left to mourn the loss of their 14-year-old son after he contracted meningitis just days after falling ill.

ALSO READ: Meningitis in children: A guide for parents

The teenager reportedly developed a fast-moving meningitis that can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis.

Experts urge parents not to overlook symptoms such as headaches, vomiting or sensitivity to light because these indicators are often mistaken for the flu or a stomach bug.

Early detection and treatment with antibiotics can mean the difference between life and death.

Common symptoms of meningitis in children include a fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting, confusion, drowsiness and sluggishness.

Symptoms in babies may be displayed with irritability, high-pitched cry, poor feeding, unusual fatigue, seizures, rash, muscle or joint pain, stomach cramps and breathing quickly.

For more information on meningitis, visit the World Health Organisation at www.who.int

Source: https://shorturl.at/uncTh

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