Claire Byrne launches Meningitis Awareness Campaign at Boots the Chemists
02 March 2010
Meningitis Research Foundation and Boots are celebrating 10 years of working together. Claire Byrne officially launched our latest awareness campaign on Thursday, 25th February in Liffey Valley Boots store. Everyone was invited to come along and take part in the Open Day which included clowns, face painting, colouring competition and much more for children on the day. A Medical Information Officer was also available to answer questions and give information about meningitis and septicaemia.
Meningitis Awareness Month will follow during March in every Boots store across the country. Shops will be distributing free life saving brochures and leaflets, along with MRF Marvin pins which will be on sale in-store for €2. All proceeds will go towards medical research, awareness and support of those who have already been affected by the diseases.
Many people believe that meningitis only affects children and teenagers. Whilst young people are more at risk, anyone at any age can contract meningitis and septicaemia. There are vaccines which provide excellent protection against some forms of the disease, but not all. The majority of cases in Ireland are caused by the meningococcal B strain, for which there is no current vaccine. In the absence of a vaccine which covers all forms of the disease, awareness is vital. MRF has organised, in conjunction with Boots information sessions open to the public in the following stores:
12th March- talk in store in Jervis Shopping Centre between 12-2 p.m.
19th March- talk in store in Pavilions, Swords between 12-2 p.m.
26th March – talk in store in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre between 3-5 p.m.
Leonard McAuliffe, Area Pharmacy Manager of Liffey Valley says: ‘Boots are delighted to work for the 10th time with Meningitis Research Foundation in an effort to raise awareness. We would really encourage customers to avail of the free information in order to learn about recognising the symptoms of this condition as well as supporting the great work of the Foundation’.
Diane McConnell, the Deputy CEO of Meningitis Research Foundation commented: ‘We are thrilled to be working with Boots again and hope that joint efforts in raising awareness of meningitis and septicaemia, more lives can be saved’.
For more information on the campaign please call our office on ROI 01 819 69 31.