Do I need the Meningitis Vaccine for University?

What is Meningitis ACWY?

Meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are rare but life-threatening infections. They are caused by several groups of meningococcal bacteria – the most common types are A, B, C, W and Y. Young people, children and babies are at the highest risk of catching meningococcal disease.

Meningococcal bacteria can cause two serious infections. Meningitis, inflammation of the lining in the brain and septicaemia, which is blood poisoning.

Meningitis can cause death or long-term health problems including:

• amputation
• deafness
• epilepsy
• learning difficulties

Symptoms of Meningitis ACWY

It is important to seek medical help immediately if you think you or someone else is showing signs of meningococcal infection. Infection can first appear as a flu-like illness, but can rapidly get worse without treatment. If any of the symptoms listed below are present, call NHS 111 or 999 in an emergency. The symptoms of meningitis can include:

• Cold Feet and Hands
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness – to the extent that you can’t wake up
• Confusion and irritability
• Pale, blotchy skin, and a distinctive rash (although not everyone will have this)
• A severe headache
• Muscular stiffness or severe aches
• A very stiff neck
• Strong sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Convulsion or seizures

Meningitis ACWY at University

Various sub groups of meningococcal disease (ACWY) can spread quickly in areas where people live closely to each other. University populations are ideal for the spread of Meningitis as many students live closely together in university halls of residence and in shared accommodation. Meeting with large classes for lectures opens students up to even more contact with infections from residences all over campus. Meningitis infections are often recorded during the first term of the year, with large numbers of students coming together for the first time during fresher’s events and socials in local bars and clubs.

Prevention of Meningitis ACWY Infection

There’s a few things you can do in preparation for university that will help keep you safe against meningitis infection. Some are general good practice to make a habit when living in shared accommodation to minimise infection from the many cold and flu viruses and other bacteria you may come into contact with. To prevent Meningitis ACWY infection:

• Get vaccinated! It’s the best way to keep you safe against Meningitis ACWY
• Practice good hygiene and keep yourself and your living space as clean as you can
• Carry hand sanitiser and surface spray to keep you and your work space clean as you move between lectures
• Keep in mind that meningococcal meningitis is usually spread through contact with the saliva or nasal secretions of an infected person
• Avoid sharing drinks, eating utensils, or any other items that may contain saliva

Meningitis Vaccine for Students

Some students starting university may have had this vaccine at school or from their GP. Check your vaccine records and if you have missed out on scheduled vaccines, make sure you get vaccinated before term starts. Ideally, you should get the vaccine 2 weeks before you start university, but we can vaccinate you anytime and will advise on how well protected you will be in the first days of term. The Meningitis ACWY vaccine requires only one dose in most cases, so you won’t have to come back to use for boosters, and the vaccine will protect you for 5 years. Book a consultation online or by calling us on 01341 555061 to get your Meningitis ACWY vaccination and to get expert advice on staying healthy at university.