As teaching on campus begins again, we urge you to check you are up to date with all free routine NHS vaccinations. 

Students who are not up to date with all their childhood and adolescent vaccines are at increased risk of serious diseases such as meningitis, septicaemia (blood poisoning), and measles as they mix with large numbers of new people, some of whom might be unknowingly carrying the disease and spreading it. 

The three vaccines you should be up to date with before coming back to Sussex include: 

• Meningitis ACWY– protecting against four common strains causing meningitis and septicaemia (A, C, W and Y). Additionally, MenB vaccines, which protect against meningococcal group B, can be purchased privately. 

• MMR – protecting against measles, mumps, and rubella. 

• HPV – protecting against human papilloma virus (HPV) related cancers such as cervical cancer and other cancers of the head, neck and genital areas, and genital warts.  

Speak with your doctor to make sure your vaccinations are up to date or if you have any queries about the vaccines. You can find more information about vaccines and eligibility from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). 

The National Health Service (NHS) provides free healthcare for UK residents and some, but not all, overseas visitors. Check the Student Hub for more information on: 

• How to register with a doctor and what free healthcare you are entitled to 

• Vaccinations. 

Recognising the signs and symptoms

You should also learn to recognise the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia even if you have been vaccinated, as it could help save a life: 

• fever and/or vomiting 

• severe headache 

• limb, joint, muscle pain, stiff neck 

• cold hands and feet, shivering 

• pale or mortified skin, or rash 

• breathing fast, breathless 

• dislike of bright lights, seizures (fits) 

• very sleepy, difficult to wake, vacant, confused or delirious.
  

Not everyone has all these symptoms, and they can appear in any order. Tell your friends if you are not feeling well and look after each other.  

If you or a friend are ill and getting worse quickly, call 999 for a medical emergency. If not treated promptly, meningitis can be very serious.