I WOULD like to remind families to be on the lookout for the symptoms of meningitis, sepsis and other associated diseases – especially at this time of the year – should a family member, work colleague or friend become unwell.

Traditionally, throughout the winter months, we see a sharp increase in infections that can cause meningitis and sepsis. These diseases often strike with incredible speed and it is of the utmost importance that medical advice is sought immediately should someone show suspected symptoms.

I lost my son 41 years ago to bacterial meningitis and sepsis. So much has been achieved during that time regarding vaccine development. We now have five meningitis vaccines in the UK national immunisation programme and everyone should make sure that their meningitis vaccinations are up to date. The highest incidence is in the under-fives and between 15 and 24 years, including university students.

Sadly, we do not have vaccines to protect against all infections causing meningitis and sepsis. For example, Invasive Group A Streptococcal (iGAS) is a main cause of sepsis and can also cause meningitis and other life-threatening diseases including rheumatic fever and pneumonia. That’s why Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research is funding a pioneering vaccine development programme to prevent iGAS. In the meantime, knowing the symptoms (see nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis) followed by prompt medical intervention is crucial towards a successful outcome.

Dr Steve Dayman, founder, Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research