A campaign aimed at raising public awareness of Meningitis was unveiled today by the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Mr Brian Lenihan TD.
The Meningitis Research Foundation, which is running the campaign, has prepared "symptoms awareness" packs that are available free from the organisation and from health board offices and pharmacies.
The foundation has also provided a 24-hour helpline offering advice and information on meningitis and septicemia.Ireland has one of the highest incidence of meningitis compared with the rest of Europe.
The foundation has joined with Boots for the fourth year to promote awareness and to raise funds for the fight against meningitis and septicaemia throughout February.
Speaking at today's launch, the Minister said there was a significant reduction in the number of cases of people with Meningococcal Group C or Meningitis C. This was, he said, due to the immunisation campaign begun by Minister for Health Mr Martin in 2000.
The vaccination has now been incorporated into the Primary Childhood Immunisation Programme and is administered to children at two, four, and six months of age.
The Minister warned of complacency regarding meningitis and septicaemia. There is no effective group B vaccine suitable for routine immunisation, and Mr Lenihan said "we must be constantly vigilant for the signs and symptoms of this disease".
The Meningitis Research Foundation helpline can be contacted at 1890-413344.
