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Meningitis Research Foundation wins national award

21 March 2007

Meningitis Research Foundation has been awarded the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) prestigious 'Science Communication Award' for its work in raising awareness of the early warning symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia.

The Foundation was praised for its 'Meningitis Awareness Week' campaign in September 2006. Over 100 Foundation members from around the country acted as media representatives to recount their experiences of meningitis and to publicise the 'red flag' early warning symptoms. These symptoms - limb pain, cold hands and feet and pale or mottled skin - if recognised early could save lives.

Meningitis Awareness Week generated a phenomenal amount of media coverage.  With more than 60 radio interviews, coverage in 120 regional newspapers and 10 appearances on regional TV, the life-saving messages reached hundreds of thousands of people.
 
Denise Vaughan, Chief Executive commented: "We are delighted that the Foundation has won this prestigious Science Communication Award.  With over 3,000 cases of meningitis and septicaemia - the blood poisoning form of the disease - in the UK every year, knowing the symptoms and acting quickly to get medical help really can make the difference between life and death."

For a FREE pack of symptoms information contact Meningitis Research Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344.

Media Contact:  Julia Warren 01454 281811 or 07711 057875

What progress is being made?

Since it was founded in 1989, the charity has awarded 122 research grants, leading to many advances in the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia. The total value of the Foundation's investment in vital scientific research is nearly £13.5/€19 million.

 

Find out more about our programme of research.