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Meningitis summer warning
01 July 2004
Meningitis Research Foundation is warning people against becoming complacent about meningitis and septicaemia during the summer months.
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.
Meningococcal bacteria cause most cases of meningitis and septicaemia - over 2,000 cases every year in the UK and Ireland. Ten per cent of these cases will result in death, many more will be left with serious disabilities such as amputations, brain damage and deafness.
A vaccine to protect against the Group C meningococcal bacteria has been successfully introduced in the UK and Irealnd. But the form that causes most disease, Group B, is still not vaccine preventable. 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 24 hour helpline - Freefone 080 8800 3344 (UK), LoCall 1890 41 33 44 (Republic of Ireland) - to request FREE symptoms information. The helpline, which is funded by voluntary donations from the general public, is operated by trained staff and nurses who also provide help and support for those affected by meningitis and septicaemia.