The following advice is issued as a result of a confirmed case of meningitis in one of our halls of residence.

The meningococcal bacteria live in the nose and throat and is only passed on by prolonged intimate contact. The University has worked with local Public Health Doctors and has already identified and is tracing very close contacts (e.g. fellow teammates and hall residents who have shared a room or kitchen with the affected person) who have been given prophylactic antibiotics. Anyone with more casual contact should be at no greater risk of catching this disease than a member of the general public and does not require treatment.

Members of the University are advised to be especially vigilant over the next few days. The important thing to know is that the disease can develop very rapidly, sometimes within a matter of hours. Early symptoms may be similar to those you get with a flu or hangover:

• feeling feverish
• vomiting
• severe headache
• stiff neck, back and joint pains

If you feel unwell, and your fever or pain symptoms are not relieved by paracetamol or aspirin, you must consult a doctor. Let a friend know you are unwell and ask them to visit you regularly.

IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS DEVELOP, GET MEDICAL HELP URGENTLY BY PHONING 111 (FREE FROM ANY PHONE), AS EARLY TREATMENT SAVES LIVES:

• rash of tiny red bruises that do not fade under pressure
• severe dislike of light
• disorientation or drowsiness

If you need further information or advice, contact your GP or phone 111 or access one of the following meningitis information websites:

• Meningitis Now
• Meningitis Research Foundation
• Public Health England