'We thought it was the flu but he rapidly deteriorated and passed away on the Tuesday'
Leanne O’Connor Keane from Bray, Co. Wicklow tragically lost her son Keelan to group B meningococcal meningitis in September 2015.
Described as a "fit and healthy, six foot three teenager, who loved life and playing sport", Keelan was just 15-years-old when he passed away.
"On the Sunday, he played a football match in the rain and didn’t feel great afterwards. We thought it was the start of the flu but he rapidly deteriorated and tragically passed away in hospital on the Tuesday from meningitis," Leanne said.
"I want to warn people about this devastating disease so that they know it can strike at any age and that young adults are the second most at risk group.”
Cases of meningitis and septicaemia usually start to rise in the autumn/winter season, and people should be especially aware of the symptoms at this time.
Influencers James Patrice, who was left fighting for his life when he contracted meningitis aged just 10, knows the importance of seeking medical attention without delay.
"It’s vital for students, particularly if they are living away from home to watch out for their friends if they’re unwell," he said.
"If they have meningitis it can be like a very bad hangover that quickly gets worse. It can be deadly, so act fast and get medical help without delay.”
Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) estimates that there have been on average 200 cases of meningitis and septicaemia every year in Ireland.
They are deadly diseases that can strike without warning, killing one in ten, and leaving a third of survivors with life altering after-effects that can be as severe as deafness, brain damage and loss of limbs.
Babies, toddlers and young adults are most at risk, however these diseases can strike anyone of any age, at any time.
Early symptoms include headache, vomiting, limb pain, fever, and cold hands and feet.
Parents should be alert to the symptoms and should not wait for a rash or neck stiffness to develop before seeking medical attention urgently.
Meningitis Awareness Week takes place from Monday, 18th to Sunday, 24th September 2017.