Health

Charity warns of heightened risk of meningitis this Christmas

A leading charity has warned the symptoms of meningitis can resemble those of the flu
A leading charity has warned the symptoms of meningitis can resemble those of the flu A leading charity has warned the symptoms of meningitis can resemble those of the flu

A MENINGITIS charity has warned of an expected rise in cases of the deadly disease in Northern Ireland.

Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) is raising awareness of the dangers of both meningitis and septicaemia, which at early stages can be mistaken as the flu.

Bacteria that can cause meningitis are most commonly found living harmlessly in the nose and throats of adolescents and young adults, but can be passed on to others, through social contact. Recent research has shown that adolescents are more likely to have higher numbers of these bacteria in their throats in winter.

The charity on average sees three times as many cases of the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in January compared with September.

MRF estimates there have been on average around 200 cases of meningitis and septicaemia every year in Ireland.

One in ten people affected will die and a third of survivors will be left with after-effects, some as serious as brain damage, amputations, blindness or hearing loss.

Rapid identification and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia provides the best chance of survival. However, it can often be missed because in the early stages the symptoms resemble many other less serious illnesses, such as flu.

Early symptoms are usually fever, vomiting, headache and feeling unwell. Limb pain, pale skin, and cold hands and feet often appear earlier than the rash, neck stiffness, dislike of bright lights and confusion.

Babies, toddlers and young adults are most at risk, however these diseases can strike anyone, of any age, at any time.

Vinny Smith, Chief Executive of MRF said, "Sadly we see even more families affected by this devastating disease during winter. Christmas should be a happy occasion for families but it's the peak season for meningitis and septicaemia. We know many families will be remembering their loved ones lost to the diseases this Christmas.

"Vaccines are already proving their worth in controlling some forms of meningitis and septicaemia in Ireland but they don't protect against all strains. Over the festive period it's more important than ever for families to be vigilant and know the symptoms."

To find out more about the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia visit www.meningitis.org/symptoms or call the Freefone helpline on 1800 41 33 44.