The thought of losing someone to meningitis is always a fearful thought at the back of our minds but to experience a close friend enduring the sudden loss of her 20 month old son to meningitis was a heartbreaking reality.

Meningitis is inflammation of the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord.

Meningitis can affect anyone of any age at any time, however there are at risk groups.

• Babies, toddlers and young children under five are the most at risk group for meningitis, with over 50% of all cases occurring in this age group.
• College students are second most at risk from meningitis. One in four 15 – 19 year olds carry these bacteria in the back of their throats, compared to one in ten of the UK population.
• Adults are also at risk. Meningitis can strike at any time, regardless of health, gender, age, race or class. People over 55 are at risk of meningitis as our immune systems weaken as we get older.

 Please support us in donating what you can to Meningitis Now to help them to continue their research with developing new vaccines and to enhance existing vaccines to save lives and prevent disability.

#In loving memory of HUGO WONG