OXFORD BROOKES has become one of the first universities to receive the Meningitis Aware Recognition Mark award.

The accolade recognises the efforts made to raise awareness of Meningitis amongst students and staff , with only 14 institutions have received the award.

The University worked on a campaign which stresses the importance of getting the vaccination and identifying the symptoms of the disease.

Dr Tom Nutt, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now said: “Congratulations to Oxford Brookes University on being one of the first in the country to achieve this important recognition and demonstrating their commitment to their students’ health and wellbeing.

“We hope Oxford Brookes will never need to deal with a case on campus but it is vital to be prepared and not be complacent about the threat of meningitis. That’s why the Meningitis Aware Recognition Mark, which raises awareness of the disease among students and staff, promotes vaccine uptake and prepares universities for what to do should the worst happen, is so important.”

While meningitis can affect anyone it is particularly prevalent in student communities, particularly those in their first year of University.

They are at a higher risk due to increased social interaction where the spread of bacteria that has not been encountered previously is more likely.

Diane Harrison, Oxford Brookes Wellbeing Services Manager, said: "Being one for the first universities to receive this award is a huge testament to Oxford Brookes' dedication to student and staff health and wellbeing.

“I extend my thanks to all staff who have had involvement with helping to share the message of the seriousness of meningitis in a university setting and the importance of getting vaccinated."