Tavistock Townhall to light up red for Kawasaki Disease awareness

Tavistock Townhall will be illuminated in red on 26 January 2026 to mark International Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day. The initiative has been organised by local families determined to raise awareness of the serious children’s illness.

Kawasaki Disease is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in UK children. Despite treatment, around a quarter of affected children may suffer lifelong heart damage.

According to research by Societi, approximately 1,500 hospital admissions for Kawasaki Disease are expected in the UK this year.

Once considered rare, the condition is now becoming increasingly common worldwide. It is more prevalent than some forms of meningitis, with more children hospitalised for Kawasaki Disease than for measles.

Families and health organisations say raising awareness is crucial, as early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of permanent heart damage. Kawasaki Disease can sometimes be mistaken for other childhood illnesses, which may delay treatment.

Societi, the UK charity supporting families affected by Kawasaki Disease, has described International Kawasaki Disease Awareness Day as “the biggest day in our calendar”. The charity is encouraging the public to learn the signs of the illness to help protect children’s hearts.