I AM writing concerning the article entitled "Health chiefs in meningitis alert."

I was pleased to see the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia the blood poisoning form of the disease were included in the piece but I thought your readers might also like to know that the Meningitis Research Foundation operates a freephone 24-hour helpline 080 8800 3344 that readers can call at any time to request their free mini-pack of symptoms information.

The foundation's helpline provides the general public and health professionals with information about meningitis and septicaemia.

It also offers support through in-depth information and befriending to individuals and families affected by the diseases.

Julia Warren

Head of Communications

Meningitis Research Foundation