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Meningitis Summer warning
16 June 2005
Meningitis Research Foundation is warning people against becoming complacent about meningitis and septicaemia during the summer months.
New figures reveal that that there have been 6707 cases of bacterial meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia in England and Wales in the three years between 2002 and 2004.
Many people think that meningitis and septicaemia - the blood poisoning form of the disease - are diseases which only occur during winter, but they can strike anyone, of any age, at any time of the year.
Although there are vaccines which provide excellent protection against meningitis and septicaemia they cannot prevent all forms. It is therefore vital that everyone knows the symptoms.
Meningitis Research Foundation's Chief Executive Denise Vaughan commented: "Meningitis and septicaemia are devastating diseases which within just a few hours can leave a baby, child or adult fighting for their life. Knowing the symptoms and acting fast will save lives."
Call the Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344 - to request FREE symptoms information.