Getting vaccinated and staying safe

Summary

The health and wellbeing of our students is our absolute priority here at the University of Lincoln. This is why we encourage our students to take up the vaccinations available to them. 

The health and wellbeing of our students is our absolute priority here at the University of Lincoln. This is why we encourage our students to take up the vaccinations available to them. 

The Department of Health recommends that students get fully immunised against the following:

  • MenACWY
  • MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella)
  • HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

You need to ensure you have had both doses of the MMR and HPV vaccines. If you are unsure of what vaccines you have received, please contact your GP practice.

It is important to register with the University Health Centre.

Meningitis
Meningitis, sepsis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are very serious, potentially life-threatening illnesses. A dose of the MenACWY vaccine will protect you against these illnesses.

If you missed having the vaccine when you were at school, you can get it up to the age of 25.

Students are at an increased risk of Meningitis, because they are most likely living in accommodation and here, they have more close contact with many new students who may unknowingly be carrying meningococcal bacteria.

Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
Measles, mumps and rubella are infectious viral illnesses which can be spread by coughs and sneezes.  Measles and mumps can cause fatal complications. The MMR vaccine gives long-term protection against these illnesses.

The MMR vaccine covers all three illnesses in a single injection. However, to ensure you are fully protected, you require two doses of the vaccine. It is offered to infants, but if you didn’t receive the injection at all, or missed a dose, you should make sure you receive it as soon as possible.

Human Papillomavirus
HPV is a common virus which is spread through skin contact, usually through sexual intercourse. Most forms of HPV are harmless, but some are linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer. 

The HPV vaccine reduces your chances of getting human papillomavirus. The HPV vaccine is usually given in a single dose to under 25’s, but you can find more information here.

If you or someone you know is feeling unwell, make sure you tell someone. You can call 111 for non-urgent advice, but if it is a medical emergency, dial 999. Let’s make sure we are all looking out for each other.