The Meningitis Trust is warning people not to wait for a rash before they seek treatment for the potentially fatal disease.

A red or purple rash is a symptom of septicaemia or blood poisoning, which is closely associated with meningitis.

However, the rash often appears much later and sometimes it doesn't appear at all.

The key early symptoms of meningitis are headache, stiff neck and dislike of bright lights.

To find out more contact the 24 hour helpline on 0845 6000800 or visit www.meningitis-trust.org

Updated: 11:33 Tuesday, January 14, 2003