There has been a recent outbreak of meningococcal disease (which causes meningitis or septicaemia) in Southeast England. Meningococcal disease is an uncommon but serious disease, and because it can spread more easily in shared spaces, we want to share some practical tips with you to help protect yourself, your friends and others. We are sharing this with you now to keep you informed, but we want to reassure you that your risk remains low.
1. Understand the symptoms
Meningococcal disease can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. Visit the NHS website to understand common symptoms.
2. Register with a doctor (GP)
To access routine healthcare – including vaccines – register with a local doctor, known in the UK as a General Practitioner (GP) practice. You can register with St Philips Medical Centre on campus, or you can register with a doctor near to where you live instead. Registering with an NHS doctor is free.
3. Get vaccinated
Getting a Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) vaccine protects against the four main forms of meningococcal disease. The vaccine is free for everyone 25 years or younger, and you can get it through your doctor. Although this vaccine does not vaccinate against Meningitis B, the strain identified in the outbreak in Southeast England, the MenACWY vaccine protects against MenA, MenC, MenW and MenY.
By getting vaccinated and knowing the key symptoms to look out for, you can protect yourself and others. If you do have concerns or would like to speak to someone about how we can support you, contact Victoria Frost, Head of Student Services.