January tends to be a hotbed of illnesses. But symptoms should be watched closely as something you think is flu could be a lot more serious.

WITH the flu season in full swing throughout January it is very important to be able to recognise the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia.

The Meningitis Research Foundation is aiming to save lives this winter with 30 second messages being screened on national TV throughout January.

The message focuses on the speed with which the illnesses can develop.

More cases of meningitis and septicaemia occur in December and January than at any other time of the year, so the timing of the foundation's message is crucial. Very often, meningitis and septicaemia, whether in babies, children or adults, begin with flu like symptoms.

Dr Deepti Kumar, consultant of communicable diseases at Ealing Primary Care Trust, said: "People need to be aware of the symptoms which are high fever, headache, vomiting and in cases of septicaemia, appearance of a rash and drowsiness.

"My advice if any of these symptoms appear is to seek medical advice immediately regardless of whether or not your child has had the Men C vaccine or not because your child could still get meningitis. The Meningitis Research Foundation has all the information you need about the illness and are the best people to contact."

Meningococcal bacteria cause most cases of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia in the UK, and since 2000 a vaccine called Men C has been available for children and teenagers aged between 15 and 19 years.

Ealing PCT administers vaccinations in children aged two to three in line with the national programme.

It vaccinated 90 per cent of children aged two in GP surgeries and clinics. The national target set is 90.4 per cent and the London target is 85.2 per cent so Ealing PCT was well within the capital's target.

Patron of the Meningitis Research Foundation, Dr Hilary Jones, is aiming to help people understand and recognise the symptoms.

He said: "As a GP and parent I know just how important it is to be aware of the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia and to act quickly in order for lives to be saved."

Denise Vaughan, chief executive of the Meningitis Research Foundation, said: "The foundation supports many families who have experienced the devastation of meningitis and septicaemia. Through this campaign we hope that lives will be saved as early diagnosis and prompt treatment really do give the best chances for a good recovery."

She added: "The foundation is a charity that relies on the public for funds."

For a free information pack on symptoms contact the Meningitis Research Foundation's free helpline on 0808 8003344