Meningitis is one of those words that strikes fear into the heart of every parent.

Every rash that appears when our kids are ill triggers the panic button and we pray that it has nothing to do with this life-threatening disease. Cases of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia have halved in Ireland in the past ten years, but even at that, we still have the highest prevalence of meningitis and septicaemia in Europe. Now one family want to highlight the importance of being more aware of the symptoms after their six-year-old son, MJ passed away from the disease. Marc's mum, Sharon Carver, said she wants to go public with the image to help another family going through the devastation she experienced. Marc had complained of a headache - later he started vomiting and he became very lethargic. He was transferred to Sheffield hospital but sadly died two days later. (Image via JustGiving.com) Sharon told the Daily Mail: "I just sat there and said why, why us, why little MJ? He didn't deserve any of this" Early diagnoses is critical. So here is a simple breakdown of the symptoms you should keep an eye out for. What is meningitis? Meningitis is inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord – the meninges. Septicaemia is blood poisoning caused by the same germs and is the more life-threatening form of the disease. Septicaemia can occur with or without meningitis (Via Meningitis.org) Symptoms in babies: 1. Although the diseases can affect anyone of any age, babies, young children and young adults are most at risk. 2. The good news is that most babies have a natural resistance to these diseases, and vaccinations give excellent protection. 3. Fever is often absent in babies less than three months of age. 4. Early symptoms can be like any other childhood illness, but a baby will get sicker much quicker than they usually would. These are the symptoms you need to look out for below: (Image via Meningitis.org) Symptoms in Toddlers: 1. The first symptoms are usually fever, vomiting, headache and feeling unwell. 2. Limb pain 3. Pale skin and cold hands and feet 4. Rash 5. Neck stiffness 6. Dislike of bright lights and confusion Other Important Things To Remember: 1. Don't wait for the rash as it doesn't always appear 2. Not everyone gets all of these symptoms 3. Symptoms can appear in any order 4. Septicaemia can occur with or without meningitis. 5. You know your child best; check on them often, trust your instincts and act fast Symptoms in Young People: Babies and young children are most vulnerable but young people and students are the next most at-risk group. This is partly because as they meet new people and move away from home, they also meet new bacteria. Here are the symptoms to look out for: (Image via Meningitis.org) The Glass Test: By now, most of us have heard of 'The Glass Test' when checking that a rash is or is not caused by meningitis, but here is a reminder of what you are looking for. 1. Place a clear glass against the skin where the rash appears 2. If you can still see the redness of the rash through the glass, then you must seek medical help immediately. 3. If the rash fades, then you are not dealing with meningitis. 4. If you do not have a glass nearby, pushing against the skin with your thumbs can also work - the rash should fade under the pressure if the meningitis virus is not present. Please note that if you have any concerns that your baby or toddler is sick, you should contact your local GP immediately. For more information, or if your family needs any support, please visit The Meningitis Research Foundation in Ireland Or click here if you want to donate to the fund in memory of little MJ.