MP backs meningitis campaign

North West Leicestershire MP Andrew Bridgen is backing a new campaign to fight for the rights of children who have suffered meningitis.

Mr Bridgen has signed a petition calling for special tests and educational support for every child who survives the disease – many of whom are left with long-term after affects.

The Meningitis Trust has launched the Meningitis Changes Futures campaign to give a better chance in life to young survivors suffering with the fallout from meningitis,

Mr Bridgen said: “New research has revealed children who survive meningococcal disease (a type of meningitis) are at a much greater risk of having mental health issues, speech and hearing difficulties, epilepsy and problems with memory and IQ.

“Children who have battled with the disease should be given as much support as possible to enable them to live their life to the full.”

“One in four who survive will suffer some form of long-term after-effect. Many children may appear to have made a full recovery but are often left with psychological and neurological problems that may go unrecognised. These children can be left struggling at school and deprived of the educational support they need.”

Sue Davie, Chief Executive of the Meningitis Trust, said: “Parents, who have had to watch their child fight for life when meningitis struck, now have to fight for their child to get the best chance in life. Recognition of the needs of these children should be a right, not a lottery.”

People are being urged to sign the Meningitis Trust education petition at www.meningitischangesfutures.co.uk.