Important health information for students

While at university it is important to ensure you keep on top of any vaccinations you may need.

All university students are strongly advised to receive the mumps, measles, rubella (MMR) and MenACWY (meningitis) jabs.

The first step for students who are unsure if they are protected against MMR and meningitis is to speak to your parents and then your GP to confirm whether you have received both or one of the vaccinations.

Both vaccinations are free to all students attending university who are under 25 years of age, and are simply administered by your GP.

The MMR vaccination consists of two jabs. It is essential to receive both doses to protect against the infection.

MenACWY protects you against four types of meningitis – A, C, W and Y and septicaemia, and is a single injection to the upper arm.

As the Christmas break is approaching this is an opportunity for students to receive the vaccinations at their local GP.

It is recommended that students who have not received any vaccinations contact their GP as soon as possible.

To register at the De Montfort Surgery please click here, or if you feel you may be presenting with symptoms of MMR, meningitis or septicaemia please contact your GP. If you haven’t got a GP please call 111 for NHS assistance (this service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

The local NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland has shared some top tips to help you stay healthy over the festive period and help you get the right treatment should you need it.

Tip 1: Sprains, strains and breaks can be hard to tell apart sometimes – the NHS website (www.nhs.uk ) has advice on what to do if you think have a strain or sprain or you may have broken a bone.

Tip 2: You can also call NHS 111 or visit their website (www.111.nhs.uk)  to check your symptoms. If needed, they can arrange for you to speak to a clinician or make you an appointment with a local service that is open near to you.

Tip 3: Leicester City residents can book appointments at one of four healthcare hubs which are also open during weekends and bank holidays or go to an urgent care centre some of which may offer x-ray facilities. Visit the local NHS Help us Help you (www.bettercareleicester.nhs.uk/help-us-help-you/ ) website to find out more.

Tip 4: Videos and advice to help you care for upset stomachs, headaches, back pain, common accidents, coughs and colds, breathing difficulties and more, are available online ( www.leicestercityccg.nhs.uk/my-health/self-care/ )

Tip 5: Your local pharmacy team can offer a fast and convenient clinical service for minor health concerns (such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy troubles, aches and pains and many more) with no appointment needed and the use of a private consultation room if required. And, if symptoms suggest it’s something more serious, pharmacists have the right training to ensure you get the help you need immediately.