Warning: Don't Neglect Your Christmas Hangover

Main Category: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
Also Included In: Flu / Cold / SARS;  Immune System / Vaccines
Article Date: 09 Dec 2008 - 5:00 PDT

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FESTIVE revellers are being warned that their Christmas hangover could be more deadly than they realise.

With the party season in full flow, Meningitis UK is reminding those who indulge in a cheerful tipple that the symptoms of the killer disease are easily confused with the after-effects of a heavy night of drinking.

Headaches, vomiting, confusion and aching limbs are all warning signs for the brain bug, which can kill in under four hours.

The winter months are when people are most at risk, with the majority of dangerous bacterial forms striking due to weakened immune systems and germs spreading more easily.

Those aged 18 to 25 are most at risk during the festive season, particularly those who have recently suffered from a cold or flu, as up to 25 per cent of people in that age group carry the organism which causes meningitis.

Meningitis UK's founder Steve Dayman, who lost his own son to the disease, said: "While we want people to go out and enjoy themselves this Christmas, we urge them not to just dismiss feeling ill for a hangover.

"The signs to look out for which are unique to meningitis, and should set alarm bells ringing, are a rash which doesn't disappear when pressure is applied, and not being able to support your own weight.

"Unfortunately, we often hear about people who have gone to bed with what they think is a hangover and not waking up. It's always best to let your friends and families know how you feel and, if in doubt, we recommend checking with a doctor."

He says the bug does not discriminate against age and urged everyone to be aware of the full range of symptoms, which includes fever, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, drowsiness and a rash that does not fade when pressure is applied.

Not everyone gets all the symptoms, and they can appear in any order. As the disease can kill within hours, swift treatment is vital as delays could lead to death or survivors being left with disabling after-effects.

Last year Meningitis UK launched its Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign to help raise £7million to fund vital research into developing a vaccine against Meningitis B - the most common form of meningitis in the UK. This accounts for almost 90 per cent of all cases and there is still no vaccine.

The charity is offering the public free symptoms information packs to help raise awareness. These include a leaflet with all the facts and frequently asked questions, plus a 'Check the Symptoms' fridge magnet and handy wallet-sized symptoms cards.

To order your free symptoms information pack or for more information about Meningitis UK, call 0117 373 7373 or visit http://www.meningitisUK.org.

Meningitis UK

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