Students can be at a higher risk of infection because they tend to live in close contact in shared accommodation, such as university halls of residence.

It’s a good idea to understand the symptoms of meningitis, mumps, measles or glandular fever via the NHS website  so you know when you might need further medical help.

Meningococcal disease

Meningitis and septicaemia can develop quickly and may be life-threatening or cause serious long-term health problems. They can be hard to recognise, as symptoms may resemble other illnesses.

The MenACWY vaccine is free for students up to their 25th birthday, including international students, if they have not already received it - contact your doctor to find out more.

Common symptoms include:

Fever and/or vomiting.
Fast or difficult breathing.
Muscle, joint, or limb pain.
Seizures.
Pale or mottled skin.
Stiff neck and severe headache.
Sensitivity to bright light.
Extreme sleepiness, difficulty waking, confusion, or delirium.
A blotchy rash anywhere on the body that does not fade when pressed with a glass.

Symptoms can appear in any order, and not everyone will have all of them.

Measles

Measles is very infectious and can cause serious complications. In rare cases, it can be fatal. It is often more severe in young people and adults and may lead to hospital admission.

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms and sore, red eyes, followed by a high temperature and a red-brown blotchy rash. If you have these symptoms, call NHS 111.

The best protection against measles is two doses of the MMR vaccine. It is never too late to get vaccinated, and having an extra dose is safe. Young people are strongly advised to check their vaccination status with their GP and arrange a catch-up if needed.

If you think you have measles, stay away from others for at least 4 days after the rash appears and call NHS 111. You should also call NHS 111 if you have been in contact with someone who has measles.

Mumps

Mumps was circulating in the UK, particularly among 15 to 25-year-olds before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Mumps is a contagious viral infection that can cause painful symptoms. Mumps is usually recognised by the painful swellings at the side of the face under the ears. However, more general symptoms often develop a few days before the face swells. These can include:

earache
joint pain
feeling sick
dry mouth
mild abdominal pain
feeling tired
loss of appetite
a high temperature(fever) of 38°C(100.4°F), or above

Mumps can cause swelling of the testicles or ovaries in young adults and, rarely, meningitis or deafness.

The best protection is two doses of the MMR vaccine. It is never too late to get vaccinated, and an extra dose is safe. Students should check their vaccination status with their GP or parents and arrange a catch-up if needed.

Anyone with symptoms should stay at home and avoid others, returning to university 5 days after swelling starts. If concerned, contact NHS 111 or your GP. In an emergency, call 999.

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