G

GLENBEIGH lady Gemma O’Connor is sharing her first-hand experience of meningitis and septicaemia during national Meningitis Awareness Week (September 19-25) to ensure people are aware of the symptoms, know to be vigilant and act fast.

Gemma contracted meningococcal septicaemia when she was 16. “The doctor told my parents I had only ten minutes to an hour to live but thankfully I survived. Meningitis is a very serious and fast developing disease,” said Gemma. “That’s why it’s so important that everyone knows the symptoms of meningitis, trusts their instincts and seeks medical advice without delay.”

Meningitis Awareness Week is run by Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF). The charity estimates that there are around 200 cases of meningitis and septicaemia every year in the Ireland. They are deadly diseases that can strike without warning, killing one in ten, and leaving a third of survivors with life altering after-effects ranging from deafness and brain damage to loss of limbs. Babies, toddlers and young adults are most at risk but the disease can strike at any age.

From December 2016 babies born on or after October 1, 2016, will be routinely offered a vaccine to protect against MenB however there is no catch up campaign planned for older children.

Monika Marchlewicz, Ireland manager of Meningitis Research Foundation, said: “We are extremely grateful to Gemma for helping to raise awareness during Meningitis Awareness Week.

MRF funds vital scientific research into the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia but there are still some forms of the disease which are not covered by vaccines so it is vital that people are aware of the symptoms. We encourage everyone to be vigilant and to get medical help if you spot the symptoms.”

Check that you know the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia at www.meningitis.org/symptoms and share the Meningitis Awareness Week campaign (www.meningitis.org/maw2016) with everyone you know using #MRFAwarenessWeek.

For any questions about meningitis, septicaemia and vaccinations that can prevent the diseases call MRF’s Freefone helpline on 1800 41 3344 or log on to www.meningitis.org.
 

 
Gemma O'Connor, Glenbeigh, who is highlighting Meningitis Awareness Week.