STUDENTS who are heading back to university after the festive break are being urged to get a free jab to protect them from deadly meningitis.

Experts at Meningitis Now have said cases of the killer disease peak during the winter months, with students in a high-risk group.

However, people can reduce the risks by taking up the offer of a free vaccine and learning what symptoms to be on the lookout for.

Rachel Robinson, the charity’s acting chief executive, said: “The ability to recognise meningitis and septicaemia quickly can save lives.

“The sooner you can get medical help, the less likely it is to become life threatening.

“That’s why learning the signs and symptoms is so important.”

Early symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and muscle pain are very similar to flu or even a hangover, but someone with meningitis or septicaemia can get a lot worse very quickly.

More specific signs to look out for include fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale, blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and a rash that doesn’t fade under pressure.

Ms Robinson added: “Prevention is also vital, which is why we’re encouraging all eligible young people to take up the free vaccine.

“Hopefully our campaign will encourage more of them to take this simple and potentially lifesaving step.”

Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.

Septicaemia, or blood poisoning, can also prove fatal.

Immunisation for men was added to the national programme in August 2015 following advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation in response to a rising number of cases of meningitis.

However, there are concerns that not enough young men who are eligible for the vaccine are taking up the offer, leaving them still at risk from the disease.

For more information about the vaccination programme or to request free signs and symptoms cards, visit the website at meningitisnow.org.