A MUM from Bury is sharing her first-hand experience of meningitis during national Meningitis Awareness Week to ensure people are aware of the illness’ symptoms.

Rose Edmondson is also using the week – which started on Monday and runs until this Sunday, September 25 – to educate people about being vigilant, “trusting their instincts” and acting fast if they discover the symptoms.

Mrs Edmondson, 36, whose four-year-old son Charlie contracted meningitis B in December last year, said: “At the time I wasn't aware that there was a vaccine available which could have protected him. “He is recovering well now, but I want to ensure no other family has to go through what we have.”

She said she wants to advise all parents to be aware of the early symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia.

“Trust your instincts and get medical help if you think your child is unwell,” added Mrs Edmondson.

“I hope as many people – especially children – can be protected as soon as possible.”

Meningitis Awareness Week is run by Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF).

The charity which organises Meningitis Awareness Week, the Meningitis Research Foundation, estimates there have been on average around 3,200 cases of meningitis and septicaemia every year in the UK.

They are deadly diseases that can strike without warning, killing one in ten, and leaving a quarter of survivors with life altering after-effects ranging from deafness and brain damage to loss of limbs. Babies, toddlers and young adults are most at risk.

MRF’s chief executive, Vinny Smith, said: “We are so grateful to Rose for raising awareness in Lancashire during Meningitis Awareness Week.

“The national MenB immunisation programme for children under age one is effective and saving lives.

“We will continue to gather evidence and expertise that will unlock protection against MenB for everyone.”

He said the MRF funds vital scientific research into the prevention, detection and treatment of meningitis and septicaemia, but that there are still some forms of the disease which are not covered by vaccines, meaning it is vital that people are aware of the symptoms.

Mr Smith added: “We encourage parents to get medical help if they are concerned about their child, to be vigilant, and to return to a health professional if they have been sent home but symptoms progress.”

People can check they know the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia at www.meningitis.org/symptoms and share the Meningitis Awareness Week campaign, www.meningitis.org/maw2016, by using #MRFAwarenessWeek.

For any questions about meningitis, septicaemia and vaccinations that can prevent the diseases call MRF’s freephone helpline on 080 8800 3344 or log on to www.meningitis.org.