Meningitis & Septicemia - Know the Facts

As a student you are in an at risk group in regards to catching meningitis, it's important that you know the signs and symptoms of the infection so you can act fast.

Before starting university you should make sure you've already had:

• The MenACWY vaccine which protects against serious infections like meningitis. Children ages 13-15 (year 9-10) are routinely offered the MenACWY jab in school, however, if you missed this you are still able to get this vaccine from the GP until your 25th birthday before you come to university to study. 
• 2 doses of the MMR vaccines which protect you from outbreaks of mumps and measles. If you have not previously had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, you are able to get this from your GP.

First-time students under 25 are eligible too so make an appointment and get protected!

For more information about Meningitis click here. 

Mumps and measles symptoms:

Nearly everyone who catches measles will have a high fever, a rash and will feel generally unwell. It usually starts off with cold-like symptoms that develop around 10 days after being infected then this will be followed by the measles rash.

People who have mumps will experience a fever, headache and painful/swollen glands in the face jaw and neck.