Meningitis warning to older people
22/09/2008
With the 'UN International Day for Older People' on October 1 fast approaching, the Meningitis Trust is issuing a warning about the dangers of meningitis to the over 55s as cases in this age group are on the increase.
The charity - which provides practical and emotional support to anyone affected by meningitis - is urging the age group to be vigilant of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Meningitis is an infectious disease that can kill within hours and leave some survivors with severe after-effects including brain damage, sight and hearing loss, and where septicaemia has occurred, limb loss and scarring.
Carol West, 60, understands only too well the impact meningitis can have on someone's life. At the age of 55, Carol contracted viral meningitis, which left her in agony with shooting pains down her sides and a severe headache, which went right through her neck. Her husband's quick action meant that she received treatment promptly. She spent a week recovering in hospital and is still receiving treatment for her after-effects. Of her experience, Carol said, "Meningitis is a disease that people think only affects children and young people, so when I was ill, meningitis was the last thing on my mind."
Approximately 10% of bacterial meningitis cases occur in the over 55s, so they are considered an 'at risk' group. The Trust produces FREE life-saving cards designed to fit inside your wallet or purse, which display the signs and symptoms of meningitis.
The Trust currently gives out more than two million cards each year, but as it celebrates its 21st anniversary this year, is urging more people than ever to request one and carry it at all times. The card is available free from the Meningitis Trust's freephone 24-hour nurse-led helpline on 0800 028 18 28.
Identifying the signs and symptoms of meningitis can be difficult as they can easily appear like more common illnesses such as flu. The symptoms of meningitis can include; fever with cold hands and feet, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright light, drowsiness, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion and in some cases a rash which doesn't disappear under pressure. Symptoms can appear in any order and some may not appear at all.