CHESHIRE East Council has urged students to ensure they are vaccinated against meningitis.

As part of a national campaign to combat the rise of the potentially deadly strain, GPs are offering the meningitis W vaccine to 18 to 25-year-olds.

Cheshire East Council says young people preparing to go to university are particularly vulnerable to the illness, and that a vaccination programme has already been successful in reducing the number of cases.

The meningitis W strain is fatal in one in 10 cases, and can also cause deafness and epilepsy.

At the same time as having their vaccinations, people are also advised to check whether they have had two doses of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles.

Councillor Paul Bates, Cheshire East Council cabinet member for communities and health, said: “With many 18-year-olds receiving their results from further education now, it is very important that this age group ensure they are vaccinated properly.

“It isn’t just those moving on to universities who are likely to be at risk of infections. Instances of people catching measles have increased recently through activities such as attending music festivals.”

For more information and advice, visit nhs.uk/conditions and search for vaccinations.