WITH Spring upon us, the subject of meningitis has, predictably, largely disappeared from the national headlines.

Those cases which do occur, however, continue to arouse interest and concern locally. While the number of the dangerous bacterial meningitis cases reduces during the spring and summer months, we at the National Meningitis Trust know only too well that it never disappears.

It is for this reason that we are anxious to convey the message that being aware of the symptoms of meningitis - and taking the right actions if the disease is suspected - can literally mean the difference between life and death.

Our literature provides full details and is supported by our 16-minute video "Understanding Meningitis", which is available for a donation to the Trust of £5. We actively encourage grant applications from sufferers and/or their families.

We emphasise that after ten years as a charity working with meningitis sufferers and those around them, we are second to none in offering informed and sustained support based on experience.

The Trust's personnel are available both during office hours and via our 24-hour Support Line, the number for which is 0345 538118. Our personnel are experienced in all levels of counselling - including listening - and our supporters who operate our Support Line have first-hand experience of meningitis and its impact. If talking counts, we are here.

Ray Thompson

National Meningitis Trust.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.