TRIBUTES have been paid to a student who died after falling ill with the deadly bug meningitis.

Stephen Gillon, 20, had complained of feeling unwell before being rushed to hospital and seen by doctors.

The nuclear physics student, of Hamilton, Lanarkshire, was taken to Hairmyres Hospital in East Kilbride where he was given treatment for meningococcal septicaemia but attempts to save him failed and he died.

Fellow students and staff at the University of West of Scotland(UWS) where he studied have now been advised on how to spot the signs for the bug in the wake of his sudden death.

Last night his family were still too upset to comment but friends took to Facebook to pay tribute to hugely popular Stephen.

Jannine Silo wrote: "Stephen, I feel a huge privilege to have known you."

Rebecca Asm said: "As hard as it is not to cry, there are so many pictures that make me laugh and smile before they make me cry.

"Living with this crazy, hilarious, amazing person for two years will be something that I'll never ever forget and I feel so lucky to have met you and to have had you as one of my best friends.

"My love and prayers are with everyone else that knew Stephen and Stephen's family. Stephen Gillon, things will never be the same without you. I love you and I miss you so much."

Mr Gillon died on November 28 and his funeral was held on December 5 at St. Ninian's Chapel in Hamilton before he was buried in the town's Bent Cemetery.

A collection for charity group Meningitis Now was held after the service.

A UWS spokesman said: "We are extremely saddened to hear of the death of Stephen Gillon and we pass on our deepest sympathy to his family and friends at this difficult time.

"UWS has been liaising closely with NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde and although the occurrence of a university-related case of meningococcal septicaemia is low, as a precautionary measure the University has issued guidance to relevant students and staff."

Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the lining surrounding the brain.

There are two main types - viral and bacterial.

Viral meningitis is usually passed on through coughing and sneezing and can be transmitted through poor hygiene. It is more common and less serious than the bacterial strain and most sufferers make a full recovery.

There are two types of bacterial meningitis meningococcal and pneumococcal. Bacterial meningitis is very serious and should be treated as a medical emergency. If the bacterial infection is left untreated, it can cause severe brain damage and infect the blood.

Warning signs for meningitis include fever, headaches, sensitivity to bright light, neck stiffness, and a non-blanching rash.

Dr David Cromie, consultant in Public Health Medicine at NHS Lanarkshire, said: "Prompt treatment can lead to full recovery, preventing serious long term consequences such as brain damage, hearing loss, loss of fingers or limbs, and even death. It is very important to seek immediate medical help, if you notice any of the symptoms of meningitis."