PUPILS in Gwent have taken part in a Toxic Shock Syndrome awareness session thanks to the backing from a Caerwent family whose daughter died of the condition.

Natasha Scott-Falber, 14, died on February 14, 2013, from TSS after using her first tampon. Her family are campaigning to raise awareness of the symptoms and have set up TSS Aware which is funding four TSS awareness sessions in secondary schools.

They have teamed up with Ithaca, an education and training company, who have delivered interactive sessions on TSS to 300 pupils already in Bassaleg School and Cardiff High School. They will be visiting Newport High School this week and are set to visit Caerleon Comprehensive and Caldicot School.

They have been targeting Year 9 pupils from secondary schools including both boys and girls. The 30 minute session includes a video which features Mandy Scott, Natasha's mother, Dan Falber, Tasha's brother and two of her school friends.

Isla Arendell, co-director of Ithaca, said: "It has gone really well. We have received 100 per cent positive feedback from students.

"We've found that a few of the pupils knew about TSS but most don't know you can get it from infections from blisters and burns. Students are very interested to learn that Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets, died from TSS."

She added: "I had heard of it. My daughter was friends with Tash and we know the family."

"It's all about getting the message out there. In the sessions the pupils are making a pledge to be TSS aware and to spread awareness.

“It's important that they go home and talk about things with their parents and spread the message - it might save a life."

The company are looking for businesses to sponsor sessions and schools who are interested in taking part in the TSS awareness session.

According to Toxic Shock Syndrome Information Service (TSSIS), around half the reported cases of TSS are associated with women using tampons, but it can also be caused by infections following burns, boils, insect bites or following surgery. The condition can be treated with antibiotics if diagnosed early.

For more information visit http://tssaware.org.uk/ or www.ithaca-education.co.uk