The number of cases of the most common form of meningitis and septicemia is continuing to rise in the UK. Figures released yesterday by the Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) show that the number of cases of the Group B form of the disease have almost doubled over a four-year period.

In the first six months of 2001 some 1,056 cases of Group B meningitis and septicaemia were recorded compared to 567 cases in the same period in 1997.

Meningitis is the inflammation of the tissues which cover the brain and spinal cord.

Meningococcal septicaemia is a type of blood poisoning which is caused by the same bacteria. Both conditions are life-threatening.

The widespread introduction of a vaccine for the Group C version of the disease in 1999 has led to a big drop in cases.

Complacency

However, the MRF has warned against public complacency because the vaccine is ineffective against the Group B strain, which is caused by a completely different strain of bacteria.

A MRF spokesperson said: "It is vital that the public do not become complacent thinking that if their child has had the meningitis C vaccine they have protection. Nothing could be further from the truth."

The charity is launching a national campaign to raise awareness of the continued threat posed by meningitis and septicaemia.

It runs a Freefone 24 hour helpline on 080 8800 3344.