by Louise-Anne Geddes, Mindful Mum, 3rd August 2012

The study, commissioned by the Meningitis Trust found that a third of children who survive meningitis will be left with “devastating” long-term conditions, including epilepsy, mental health problems and learning difficulties.  One in five will have anxiety or behavioural disorders.

About Meningitis

According to the Meningitis Trust, around 3,400 new cases of bacterial meningitis are diagnosed in the UK each year, with half of them children.  In total, 500,000 people in the UK suffer with the illness.  Children under five, young people aged 15 to 24 and adults aged over 55 are most at risk of the illness, and The Meningitis Trust has called for the automatic right for any child who has been treated for the disease to have regular assessments throughout their time in education.

Devastating effects

Sue Davie, chief executive of the Meningitis Trust, said:

‘The hidden, yet devastating after-effects of meningitis can often be dismissed.  We hope that the new findings will encourage education and health professionals to recognise these, as well as the noticeable physical after-effects of meningitis, and push for children to receive the support they need and deserve.  In addition, we hope that parents will feel more empowered by these findings. They need to be confident when advising professionals that their child might be suffering from the after-effects of meningitis in order to change perceptions, and ensure meningitis is fully investigated as a possible cause’.

Know the signs of meningitis

Make sure you know the signs of meningitis.

Source:  The Independent (PA hosted), Meningitis effects harming children, 3rd August 2012

Photography: Official US Navy Imagery @Flickr