A NEW Forest paralympic meningitis survivor has issued a warning to students ahead of an awareness week.

Aaron Phipps, from Totton, has shared his first-hand experience of the disease, urging students to get a lifesaving vaccine before starting university.

Most people aged 14 to 20 are eligible for the vaccine, with university students at higher risk of the disease and septicaemia.

Meningitis Awareness Week begins today, aimed at educating youngsters who may be vulnerable.

The disease is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord and can cause life-threatening blood poisoning, known as septicaemia, and permanent damage to the brain or nerves.

Aaron, a London 2012 wheelchair rugby paralympian, contracted meningitis C aged 15.

He said: “The disease developed from seemingly harmless flu like symptoms, which 12 hours later saw me on a life support machine.

“As it’s meningitis awareness week, I want to raise awareness of this disease and the vaccine that’s available to teenagers that could stop them getting ill like I did.

“I’m hoping I can help make a difference.”

Teenagers are a high risk age group, with university freshers particularly vulnerable due to the mix with other students who would be carrying the bacteria unknowingly.

Anyone wanting to know more about meningitis can contact the MRF helpline on 08088 003344.