MENINGITIS and septicaemia, the blood poisoning and more life-threatening form of the disease, have been occurring in the UK at a rate unprecedented for the last 50 years.

The Meningitis Research Foundation's message is to be aware of the signs and symptoms, alert to whether the child/person is deteriorating rapidly and to act by getting medical help immediately.

Because the onset of meningitis and septicaemia can be rapid, it is vital that everyone knows the signs and symptoms to watch out for. Not everyone gets all of the symptoms and they can appear in any order.

For septicaemia, which often starts with flu-like symptoms, they are: rash, fever and vomiting, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, joint/muscle pain, abdominal pain (sometimes with diarrhoea), and drowsiness/impaired consciousness.

Meningitis symptoms are: severe headache, stiff neck (not always present in young children), dislike of bright lights, fever/vomiting, drowsiness/impaired consciousness and a rash.

Babies may also suffer from tense or bulging fontanelle (soft spot), blotchy or pale skin, refusing to feed, fretfulness with a shrill or moaning cry when handled and body stiffening with involuntary movements or a floppy body.

For more information contact the Meningitis Research Foundation's 24 hour helpline on Freefone 0808 800 3344.

In summer, just as in winter, think 'meningitis' - it could save a life.

JULIA WARREN, Press Officer, Meningitis Research Foundation, High Street, Thornbury, Bristol.

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