Sir, - Meningitis Research Foundation was saddened to learn of the tragic death of Natalie Moran from meningitis (reported in The Irish Times, March 21st). Our sympathies are with the family at this sad time.
The foundation was set up by a parent who lost his own son to meningitis, to actively fight the devastating disease by funding scientific research and education programmes. Our members and supporters, most of whom have had personal experience of the disease, believe that both research and awareness initiatives are vital means of combating meningitis.
However, because at present there is no reliable vaccine for some types of the disease, it is important that everyone knows the symptoms of meningitis, and of a type of blood poisoning called meningococcalsepticemia. The blood poisoning is caused by the same bacteria which causes meningitis and is potentially life threatening, it can appear with or without meningitis.
We will be happy to send your readers a copy of the foundation's leaflet, "A Race Against Time", which clearly describes the different signs of meningitis and meningococcal septicemia. A stamped addressed envelope should be sent to: "Race Against Time", Meningitis Research Foundation, 29 Springwell Street, Ballymena, Co Antrim, BT43 6AT. - Yours etc.,
Ireland Co-ordinator,
Meningitis Research
Foundation,
High Street, Thornbury, Bristol.