It’s important to know which vaccines you may need and are eligible for. If you’re missing any vaccines, you can get these through the NHS.

Published Tuesday, 13th February, 2024 in University news

Vaccines help protect your health and the health of those around you.

All GP surgeries offer three key vaccines: MenACWY, MMR and HPV. International students are eligible for these vaccines.

If you have not already done so, please register with a GP surgery and check with them to see if you need any vaccines. You can find out how to register with a GP surgery on the NHS website.

MenACWY vaccine

The MenACWY vaccine protects against meningitis and sepsis. These diseases are rare but can be life-threatening. New university students are at higher risk of infection due to mixing with lots of new people.

If you missed having the vaccine when you were at school, you can get it before your 25th birthday. The vaccine is different to the MenC vaccine.

MMR vaccine

The MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent measles, mumps and rubella. You’re more protected if you’ve had two doses of the MMR vaccine. Younger students are likely to be in an under-vaccinated age group.

The MMR vaccine is available for free, for any student who hasn’t received both doses. You can check with your parents or guardians or ask your GP surgery if you’ve had both doses.

HPV vaccine

The HPV vaccine protects against human papillomavirus (HPV) which can cause cancer, as well as the most common genital warts.

Any female student under 25 and male students born after 1 September 2006 who missed having the vaccine at school can have the vaccine by contacting their GP. Men under the age of 46 who have sex with men can get a vaccine when they visit a specialist sexual health or HIV clinic.

If you’re feeling unwell, call NHS 111 and if you’re in an emergency, call 999. Detailed information about the different medical services available to you is on the Student Hub.