I AM writing on behalf of the Meningitis Trust in response to the news that 15-month-old Richard Hunter, from Newcastle, contracted meningococcal septicaemia in June this year and as a result has lost his legs and right arm.

We have a range of support services available to Richard and his family and anyone else who has been affected by meningitis or meningococcal disease. These can be accessed by calling me directly on the number below, or contacting our 24-hour freephone helpline on 0800 028 18 28.

Recognising the symptoms of meningitis can be difficult, as many are similar to common illnesses, such as flu. The rash that is commonly associated with meningitis doesn’t appear in all cases, so it is vital that people are aware of the other signs and symptoms. If people are concerned about their own, or someone else’s health, they must seek medical attention immediately.

We produce and distribute free credit-card sized symptoms cards for people to keep in their purses and wallets. To request these, or for more information about meningitis, call our helpline on 0800 028 18 28 or visit our website at meningitis-trust.org – we also have a new iPhone app, which is free to download. Visit meningitisapp.co.uk Nico Chilton, Community Development Officer, Meningitis Trust, Stroud, Gloucestershire.