CHARITY Meningitis Now is warning people to stay vigilant to the signs and symptoms of meningitis as cases of the deadly bacterial form of the disease peak during the winter.

With the clocks going back on Sunday and the prospect of colder winter weather the risk of meningitis increases. People spend more time indoors, closer to others; meaning germs are spread more easily.

Dr Tom Nutt, Meningitis Now chief executive, said: “Meningitis is a difficult disease to spot as many of its early symptoms can be similar to flu. These symptoms can include fever with cold hands and feet, vomiting, headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright light, joint or muscle pain, pale blotchy skin, drowsiness, confusion and, in babies, a dislike of being handled, an unusual cry, rapid breathing and bulging fontanelle.

"Both adults and children may have a rash that does not fade under pressure, but advice from Meningitis Now is not to wait for a rash to develop before seeking medical attention".