Physical, educational and social outcomes of pneumococcal meningitis
Research archive
- St Barts and Royal London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK, Middlesex Hospital, London, UK, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
- Researchers:
Dr Deborah Christie, Dr Kyle Knox, Dr Russell Viner, Professor E Richard Moxon, Professor Robert Booy
- Project Number: 0105.0/0105.1
- Category: Treatment
- Duration: 2001-2003
- Start Date: 01 January 2001
- Type: Lay summary
- View scientific version
We know that pneumococcal meningitis is among the deadliest forms of the disease, and carries a higher risk of deafness and neurological damage for survivors than most other forms. What we don't know is how this disease affects children's lives in terms of physical and mental function, ability to perform at school and in further education, and psychological well-being. A new vaccine against this infection is being considered for use in the UK, so high quality information on the damage caused by this illness is needed to help determine who should have the vaccine.
The study aims to find out about educational and employment problems due to pneumococcal meningitis, as well as physical, mental and social consequences. It will compare the quality of life in survivors with that of young people who have not had pneumococcal meningitis. Information will be collected from 160 children and young people who have had pneumococcal meningitis on school progress, employment, the ability to lead an independent life, and psychological well being as well as physical and functional disability. A trained researcher will perform tests on areas such as memory, intelligence, strengths and difficulties, moods and feelings. Information about the financial costs of the illness in areas like health, education and social security will complete the picture.