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Meningitis cases increase in the winter
Meningitis Research Foundation is offering free information that could save lives this winter.
The highest number of cases of meningitis and septicaemia are often recorded in December and January so to help save lives the Foundation has B Aware symptoms information packs freely available to the public. These can be requested by calling the Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344 .
Although there are vaccines which give excellent protection against some forms of meningitis and septicaemia, it is important to remember that there is no vaccine available to protect against meningitis caused by Group B meningococcal disease, which is responsible for the greatest number of cases in the UK.
Chris Head, Chief Executive of Meningitis Research Foundation, said: "Meningitis and septicaemia are diseases that can develop very quickly and can kill in hours. Therefore, it is vital to recognise the symptoms and understand the need to obtain medical help immediately if a case is suspected. We would urge the public to phone the Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline and ask for their free B Aware information pack. Knowing the symptoms and getting medical help quickly really can save lives."
Although anyone of any age can get meningitis and septicaemia, almost half of all cases in the UK are in the under fives. This is why it is particularly important for parents to be vigilant, especially in the winter months when cases increase.
The charity also provides information on meningitis and septicaemia in 22 languages which are available on this website and supports families and individuals who have already been affected by the diseases.
Media Contact: Julia Warren 01454 281811 or 07711 057875
Notes to Editor :
- Meningitis Research Foundation currently funds 18 research projects. Since it was founded in 1989, the charity has awarded 118 research grants, leading to many advances in the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia.
- Meningitis Research Foundation operates a Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344 - providing information on meningitis and septicaemia to the general public and health professionals.
Symptoms of meningitis:
Fever; vomiting; severe headache; rash (not present in all cases); stiff neck*; dislike of bright lights*; very sleepy/vacant/difficult to wake; confused/delirious; seizures (fits) may also be seen. (*Unusual in young children.)
Symptoms of septicaemia (blood poisoning form of the disease):
Fever; vomiting; limb/joint/muscle pain (sometimes stomach pain/diarrhoea); pale or mottled skin; cold hands and feet; shivering; breathing fast/breathless; rash (anywhere on the body); very sleepy/vacant/difficult to wake; confused/delirious.
Other symptoms in babies include: tense or bulging fontanelle (soft spot); refusing to feed; being irritable when picked up with a high pitched or moaning cry; a stiff body with jerky movements or else floppy and lifeless.