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Meningitis cases could jump in cold weather, experts warn
Cases of meningitis may jump in the coming weeks, with the killer disease thriving in prolonged sub-zero temperatures, medical experts have warned
Published: 3:37PM GMT 08 Jan 2010
Experts at national charity Meningitis Trust have warned the deadly illness is likely to flourish during the icy weather, particularly in the elderly and vulnerable.
With immune systems weakened by the cold, the highly-contageous disease could spread like wildfire, with children under five at the highest risk.
Sue Davie, chief executive of the Meningitis Trust, said: "Meningitis is a disease that strikes quickly and, if left untreated, can kill in just a few hours.
"With experts suggesting that the bad weather could continue for a few weeks, we are urging people to remain vigilant to the symptoms.
"Worryingly, the symptoms can easily look like other, more common conditions, such as flu or swine flu.
"But, it's important to err on the side of caution, be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis, and seek medical attention as a matter of urgency if you suspect the disease."
Common symptoms of the condition are fever, vomiting and headache, along with a distinctive rash which will not fade under pressure.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/h...-could-jump-in-cold-weather-experts-warn.html
Cases of meningitis may jump in the coming weeks, with the killer disease thriving in prolonged sub-zero temperatures, medical experts have warned
Published: 3:37PM GMT 08 Jan 2010
Experts at national charity Meningitis Trust have warned the deadly illness is likely to flourish during the icy weather, particularly in the elderly and vulnerable.
With immune systems weakened by the cold, the highly-contageous disease could spread like wildfire, with children under five at the highest risk.
Sue Davie, chief executive of the Meningitis Trust, said: "Meningitis is a disease that strikes quickly and, if left untreated, can kill in just a few hours.
"With experts suggesting that the bad weather could continue for a few weeks, we are urging people to remain vigilant to the symptoms.
"Worryingly, the symptoms can easily look like other, more common conditions, such as flu or swine flu.
"But, it's important to err on the side of caution, be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis, and seek medical attention as a matter of urgency if you suspect the disease."
Common symptoms of the condition are fever, vomiting and headache, along with a distinctive rash which will not fade under pressure.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/h...-could-jump-in-cold-weather-experts-warn.html