A Message from Camden Council

Vaccinations before arriving at University

Below is a message from Camden Council...

Dear student

Congratulations on securing a place at University of London. We hope that you enjoy your time as a student in Camden and would like to help you stay healthy and well while you're studying here.

 

It is important to make sure that you are up to date with your vaccinations before you arrive at university.

 

• Men B. This vaccine protects against meningitis and sepsis, which can be life threatening. This is the first year that the Men B vaccine has been offered to young people in the UK, who are at highest risk of infection, including anyone aged 24 or under and starting university. You need two doses of the vaccine, which you can get for free at your pharmacy. You need to get the first dose as soon as possible before the term starts, so that you can be fully protected in the autumn semester.

 

Ask your GP if you have received the following vaccines:

 The Td/IPV  vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria and polio. You should have received several doses of vaccines throughout your childhood that offer protection against these infectious diseases. If you live in the UK, you will have been offered a final dose of Td/IPV in year 12.

 

• The MenACWY vaccine protects against serious infections like meningitis and is usually given in school in year 12. You can still receive this vaccine at your GP in the UK for free, up until your 25th birthday.

 

• The HPV vaccine helps protect against genital warts and cancers caused by certain types of HPV. You can still receive this vaccine at your GP in the UK for free, up until your 25th birthday.

 

• The MMR vaccine offers protection against measles, mumps and rubella. North Central London (where Camden is) have had high numbers of measles cases reported this year. You should have received two doses of MMR vaccine to protect you against the most serious forms of measles, but it is never too late and always free to catch up at your GP practice.

 

If you have missed any of these vaccines and you are living in the UK, you can get them free of charge at your GP or depending on where you live at Vaccination UK catch-up clinic. Please note that Men B vaccine is only available free of charge via community pharmacies in the UK to anyone who is registered with a GP.

 

Young adults are at higher risk of meningococcal disease and even if you have received both the MenACWY and Men B vaccine there are other types of bacteria that can also cause meningitis and sepsis. Meningitis is easy to mistake for fresher’s flu, COVID or even a hangover.

 

Know the symptoms and if you are worried about someone get medical help as soon as possible.

 

Stay healthy and well

 

Health & Well-being Team (Public Health)

Camden Council