A WORCESTER mum whose son is lucky to be alive after catching pneumococcal meningitis is urging other parents to "get up to speed" with the disease.

Tracey Abraham, who cares for her five-year-old son Daniel, is urging people to obtain the free information packs from the Meningitis Research Foundation.

"It's absolutely essential to know the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as there are still many types of these diseases for which there are no vaccine," she said.

"There are a number of checklists for meningitis in the free mini pack from Meningitis Research Foundation."

Daniel was struck down with the disease at just 16 weeks old when his lungs collapsed. He has been left severely disabled as a result of the disease, and suffering, among other problems, epilepsy and asthma.

"Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining of the brain and the type of inflammation depends upon the type of meningitis," said Mrs Abraham, from Barnes Way, Cherry Orchard.

"It is absolutely essential to know the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia as there are still many types of these diseases for which there are no vaccine."

Meningitis and septicaemia are life-threatening and can strike anyone of any age.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of these diseases and acting quickly is therefore essential.

Symptoms include rash, fever, vomiting, cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, stomach joint and muscle pain, drowsiness, impaired consciousness, severe headache, stiff neck and dislike of bright lights.

People struck down with the disease may not have all the above symptoms.

"Too many people experience the devastation of meningitis and septicaemia," said Denise Vaughan, chief executive of Meningitis Research Foundation.

Information

"By offering free symptoms information to everyone we hope lives will be saved.

"Early diagnosis and prompt treatment really do give patients the best chance for a good recovery."

People interested in learning more about the disease should phone the Meningitis Research Foundation's Freephone 24 hour helpline on 080 8800 3344 for a free mini-pack of symptoms information.