Meningitis support is readily available

3:32pm Tuesday 1st April 2008

THE Meningitis Research Foundation is working in the West Midlands to help individuals and families whose lives have been affected by meningitis and septicaemia, the blood poisoning form of the disease.

These are devastating illnesses which affect some 3,000 people every year in the UK.

They can kill in hours and leave many others with after effects that can be as serious as brain damage, deafness and amputations.

Your readers can get information on meningitis and septicaemia by calling Meningitis Research Foundation's Freefone 24 hour helpline - 080 8800 3344.

Building on 19 years of experience in supporting families affected, the charity provides a listening ear, as well as in-depth support, befriending and home visits.

Our trained staff and nurses are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Information on meningitis and septicaemia is also provided in 22 languages in both written and audio format, from the Foundation's website - www.meningitis.org.

Additionally an interpretation service is available in 120 languages through the helpline.

Knowing the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia is vital as early diagnosis and treatment offers the best chance of a good recovery.

However, for those already affected the foundation can provide that much needed help and support.

Julia Warren

Meningitis Research Foundation

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