Higher Risk Of Meningitis During Winter Months

The charity is warning parents of young children as well as teenagers and students to be especially aware of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia during the winter months as these groups are most at risk, and are not protected against all forms of the disease.   Although there are vaccines to cover some strains of meningitis, they do not cover all types of the disease, therefore awareness of symptoms and swift action where meningitis is suspected is vital.

Dr Claire Cameron, Strategic Lead, Vaccine Preventable Diseases at Health Protection Scotland said:  “Meningitis  is a rare but life-threatening infection that occurs mainly in children and young adults. Parents of babies and young children should make themselves aware of the symptoms. Students starting university and mixing with lots of new people, some of whom may unknowingly carry the meningococcal bacteria, are also at risk of infection. 

Mary Millar, Scotland Manager  of Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) adds: “Parents are often unaware just how vulnerable their children are to meningitis – especially young children, teenagers and students. They assume current vaccines offer blanket protection but this isn’t the case. MenB is a good example. For many years it has killed and disabled more young children than any other infection but is still not vaccinated against on the NHS because the licensed vaccine is the subject of protracted price negotiations. 

Anyone who would like further information about the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia  or have any concerns should visit: www.meningitis.org  or call the Freefone Helpline: 080 8800 3344