BARNTON couple Jo and Tim Kirwin have shared their experience of meningitis and septicaemia to ensure people are aware of the symptoms.

Jo and Tim are supporting Meningitis Awareness Week, which runs from September 15 to 21, to raise awareness of the disease.

Meningitis and septicaemia affect nine people in the UK and Ireland each day. They kill one in 10, and leave a quarter of survivors with life-changing after-effects ranging from deafness and brain damage to loss of limbs.

Jo and Tim’s son Theo, 10, contracted pneumococcal meningitis aged four months in November 2004, and suffered what his parents described as “devastating” after-effects.

“He suffered severe brain damage and is profoundly deaf,” said Jo, who teaches yoga for babies and young children at home and Hartford Village Hall.

“He has bilateral cochlea implants and special educational needs. His movement is limited and he needs regular physiotherapy.

“Theo is a very happy, sociable child, and although his development is very delayed he does show progress, enjoys school and has lots of input from family, friends and professionals.

“We’re supporting Meningitis Awareness Week as everyone needs to know the symptoms of this disease so they can seek medical help fast.”

Christopher Head, chief executive of the Meningitis Research Foundation, said he was very grateful to Jo and Tim for their support.

“Meningitis and septicaemia are diseases you never expect to happen, but sadly their personal experience brings home how devastating these diseases can be, and why it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and be prepared to act fast when loved ones, family and friends fall sick.”

The foundation said children under five and students are most at risk, but the diseases can strike at any age and not all forms are covered by vaccines.

“Children are vaccinated against Hib, MenC and 13 strains of pneumococcal meningitis,” said a spokesman.

“A MenB vaccine was recommended for infants in the UK in March, but a timetable for implementation free of charge on the NHS is yet to be confirmed.

“The government has also introduced a new MenC booster campaign aimed at students starting university.”