All students who have not been vaccinated against mumps, measles, rubella and meningitis are encouraged to contact their GP and arrange to receive an MMR or meningitis vaccine. If you are not sure if you have received the vaccine, please contact your GP to check.
If you suspect you may have mumps, measles or rubella, please call your GP immediately and inform your School or Department. If you believe you have meningitis, call 999 or go to your nearest accident and emergency department immediately.
Mumps prevention and the MMR Vaccination
It is strongly advised that students who have not previously had TWO doses of the MMR vaccine contact their GP as soon as possible to arrange to have this free vaccination.
You can avoid mumps, measles and rubella by avoiding close personal contact with a person with these illnesses and via immunisation.
You need to complete the course of two doses of the vaccine and this may be given at any age.
Mumps and measles are both highly infectious illnesses caused by viruses that easily spread by close contact with the nose and throat secretions of the infected person. For example, through coughing and sneezing, and also by direct contact with articles that have been contaminated, such as tissues.
As the MMR is a live vaccine, if you have a weakened immune system your GP may recommend you do not receive it. If this affects you, please discuss with your nurse or doctor.
Meningitis vaccination
Meningitis is comparatively rare, but it is important to be aware of the symptoms and be prepared to take urgent action whenever it is suspected, as it can develop suddenly and progress rapidly.
Early symptoms you should be aware of include:
- severe diarrhoea and vomiting
- headache
- muscle pain
- fever
- cold hands and feet
Students should be alert to the signs and symptoms and should not wait for a rash to develop before seeking medical attention urgently. Students are also encouraged to look out for their friends, particularly if they go to their room unwell.
All first year students receive a small wallet card with this information at the start of the academic year. If you need a replacement, please ask at your Hall, at Brownlow Health, or via Meningitis Now.
A free Meningitis ACWY Vaccination / Meningitis Booster is available for any unprotected individual under 25 years of age.
More information
For information about the symptoms of mumps, measles, rubella and meningitis, please visit the NHS website. The Brownlow Health website also has useful advice for students.
If you have a query, or if you are concerned about mumps, measles, rubella or meningitis, please contact your GP.