Editor's Letter about the recent increase in cases of meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia in Scotland
Dear Editor,
I was very concerned to read recently about the recent increase in cases of meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia in Scotland. Provisional data indicates that in the first three months of this year cases are up by 40% in comparison to the first three months of 2006. Six people have so far died of these diseases in 2007 and in the whole of last year there were only seven deaths.
The majority of these deaths were caused by Meningitis B, the most common form of the disease which causes almost 90% of all cases in the UK and for which there is still no vaccine.
I hope your readers will find it re-assuring to know that Meningitis UK is fighting back against meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia. In April, we launched a national ‘Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign' which signals the start of a major phase in the search for a vaccine for meningococcal group B.
Scientists believe that with enough support, this can be achieved within the next 7-10 years - possibly even sooner. The aim of the campaign is to raise £7 million over the next seven years to fund the research needed to reach this goal.
In the absence of a vaccine, knowing the symptoms and seeking prompt treatment can mean the difference between life and death.
If any of your readers are concerned and would like to request a free ‘Know the symptoms' fridge magnet or would like to find out more or support the Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign, they can call Meningitis UK on 0117 373 7373 or visit www.meningitisUK.org
Yours faithfully,
Kate Rowland
Meningitis UK
MeningitisUK · Registered Charity No.1076774
