Irish meningitis charities have joined forces to raise public awareness of the disease as part of the first World Meningitis day later this month.
The first international awareness day for the disease will take place on April 25th, supported by the Confederation of Meningitis Organisations (CoMO), which is hoping to promote the need for vaccines and to make sure support is available to all those affected by meningitis.
The Meningitis Research Foundation and Meningitis Trust will team up to alert the public about meningitis. As part of the event, which was unveiled by RTÉ broadcaster Miriam O'Callaghan earlier this afternoon, people are being asked to join hands online through the CoMO website (www.comoonline.org).
Up to 300 people are affected by the disease every year in Ireland. Around 25 people die from bacterial meningitis, with others left living with after-effects such as deafness, blindness, limb loss, learning difficulties, memory issues and behavioural problems.
Ahead of World Meningitis day is European Immunisation Week, with the Meningitis Trust urging parents to discuss the relevant vaccinations with their GP.
"Meningitis is a global killer, affecting 250-300 people every year in Ireland and millions more around the globe. We hope World Meningitis Day will highlight the global impact of these diseases and the importance of continued research, education and awareness in creating a world free from meningitis and septicaemia," said Chris Head, chief executive of Meningitis Research Foundation.
General manager of the Meningitis Trust Carole Nealon said meningitis had affected many lives. "We hope World Meningitis Day will show them that they are not alone and that meningitis organisations across the world are working together to help save lives," she said.
