Warning over meningitis danger
Health experts today warned young people to be extra vigilant of the potentially life-threatening meningitis virus which can kill a healthy person within hours.
Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) said meningitis and septicaemia – the blood poisoning form of the disease – reach their height during Christmas and New Year.
They strike suddenly leaving people fighting for their lives within hours, and families confused, isolated and disorientated as the trauma unfolds.
MRF launched a freephone 24-hour helpline – 1800 41 33 44 – for anyone concerned over symptoms or the side effects of the illness during the festive period.
“For those who lose a loved one to the diseases the pain can last a lifetime, while others are left struggling to cope with the after-effects such as severe as brain damage, deafness and amputations,” said manager Diane McConnell.
“If you have been affected by meningitis or septicaemia, our helpline can provide a listening ear, as well as in-depth support and befriending.”
One in 10 people carry the bacteria which cause these diseases. Although it is usually harmless, anyone can get the diseases with babies, children and young adults most at risk.
Cases of meningococcal bacteria – which historically causes the majority of fatal forms of meningitis in Ireland – have dropped this year to 151 from 176.
In the year 2000 more than 500 cases of the strain were recorded resulting 30 deaths.
Last year just seven people died from it, however experts estimate the figure might be higher as some victims’ deaths may have been attributed to causes like heart failure.
Elsewhere, other conditions which can lead to meningitis – including streptococcal pneumonia bacteria and mumps – are on the rise with more than 1,300 cases of mumps recorded so far this year.
Students in particular are urged to make certain they have had two doses of the MMR vaccine.
Last December Doreen Bohan from Co Meath watched in horror as her 12-year-old daughter was struck with the virus.
“My daughter Claire had bacterial meningitis and septicaemia in December 2007,” she said.
“Without the support of Meningitis Research Foundation, we would have felt very isolated. It was wonderful to know that someone was always available to listen.”
Symptoms of meningitis include fever, vomiting, severe headache, rash (not present in all cases); stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, sleepiness and confusion. Seizures may also be seen, but it is unusual in young children.
For septicaemia people should look out for fever, vomiting, limb/joint/muscle pain (sometimes stomach pain/diarrhoea), pale or mottled skin, cold hands and feet, breathing fast or breathlessness, a rash, tiredness and confusion.
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.
“Meningitis and septicaemia can kill in hours,” added a MRF spokeswoman.
“Vaccines can’t prevent all forms. You’re fit and healthy – you think it’s only flu, a hangover or the effects of a heavy night out, but don’t just leave it. Check out the symptoms.”
