Meningitis alert (From York Press)

Meningitis alert

11:28am Saturday 22nd September 2012 in Letters By Reader's letter

THE end of September sees the start of the peak season for bacterial meningitis.

We wish to raise awareness of the symptoms and to introduce ourselves as local representatives.

The Meningitis Trust has expanded its community team, so that more people are able to access our free support.

We work right across Yorkshire and are here to help.

Meningitis can strike quickly and kill within hours.

The risk of bacterial meningitis increases during the colder months as people spend more time indoors, closer to others; meaning germs are spread more easily.

Fighting common infections such as colds and flu weakens immune systems, leaving them more vulnerable to the disease.

Those who survive can be left with a range of lifelong after-effects.

We are dedicated to supporting anyone who’s been affected by meningitis.

We fulfil different roles within Yorkshire – one focused on support and awareness and the other on fundraising.

Our support is a lifeline, but we are reliant on voluntary contributions from individuals. We have lots of opportunities for people to get involved.

Please do get in touch.

Andrew Bullock, community support officer (0845 120 2450), Shelagh Hopkinson, community fundraiser (0845 120 2123), Yorkshire representatives of the Meningitis Trust.