Meningitis has been big news in the UK throughout 2014 but it’s no time to be complacent about the symptoms; this deadly disease hasn’t gone away warns international charity Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) during its annual Meningitis Awareness Week (15 – 21 September 2014).

A new MenB vaccine was recommended for use on the NHS to protect babies in March 2014, but it’s not been implemented yet, and a MenC booster campaign is currently underway for those aged under 25 starting university this year. But people of all age groups can be affected by many forms of the disease.  Everyone can help save lives by knowing the signs and symptoms and having the confidence to seek medical help fast when family and friends fall sick.

MRF Chief Executive, Christopher Head says: “It’s our 25^th anniversary this year and after decades investing in research, campaigning and support, we have seen remarkable progress in the fight against meningitis in the UK in 2014. But we are still some way from protecting everyone from all forms of the disease. We cannot be complacent. Meningitis hasn’t gone away which is why we continue to promote the symptoms in the run up to the winter peak for cases with a life-saving national Meningitis Awareness Week.”

The charity estimates 3,200 people are affected by meningitis and septicaemia in the UK every year. One in ten dies and a quarter of survivors are left with life altering disabilities ranging from deafness and brain damage to amputations. Globally around 1,000 people die from meningitis every single day.