As you prepare for university life, packing your bags and looking forward to new experiences, it’s crucial to ensure that your health is just as well-prepared. Living in shared spaces such as halls of residence and being in close contact with others increases your risk of contracting certain infectious diseases—one of the most serious being Meningitis B.
At Woodstock Road Chemist, we are committed to helping university students stay healthy and protected. One important way to do this is by offering the Meningitis B vaccine, a vital step in defending yourself against a life-threatening infection that spreads easily in environments like university campuses.
Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord, usually caused by bacterial or viral infections. Meningitis B, caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, is the most common strain of bacterial meningitis in the UK. It can affect anyone but poses a particular risk to those aged 16-25, especially university students.
Symptoms of Meningitis B can develop rapidly and may include:
– Sudden high fever
– Severe headache
– Stiff neck
– Sensitivity to light
– Drowsiness or confusion
– Vomiting
– A distinctive rash (though this is not present in all cases)
Meningitis B can lead to severe complications such as sepsis, brain damage, or even death. This is why getting vaccinated early is critical.
University settings create the ideal environment for meningitis to spread. You are likely to:
– Live in close proximity: Whether it’s halls of residence or shared flats, living closely with others increases the likelihood of infections spreading.
– Attend social gatherings: University life often involves attending large events, clubs, or societies, where bacteria can easily be transmitted.
– Share personal items: Students often share utensils, drinks, or even towels, which can increase the risk of infection.
The good news is that you can protect yourself against Meningitis B with a simple vaccination. The Meningitis B vaccine has been proven to be highly effective at preventing this dangerous bacterial infection.
Since the vaccine was introduced into the NHS routine immunisation programme for babies in 2015, cases of Meningitis B have decreased significantly in younger children. However, older teenagers and young adults, particularly those about to start university, remain at high risk.
At Woodstock Road Chemist, we make it easy for you to stay protected. We offer the Meningitis B vaccine in a convenient and welcoming environment.
Here’s what you need to know:
– Who should get vaccinated: The vaccine is recommended for individuals aged 16-25, particularly those about to start university. If you missed your earlier NHS vaccinations or have not been vaccinated before, it’s not too late to protect yourself.
– Cost: While the Meningitis B vaccine is provided on the NHS for babies, older teenagers and adults can obtain it privately at Woodstock Road Chemist for £110.00 per dose.
– How it works: The vaccine is given in a course of two injections. After the first dose, you’ll need to return for a follow-up dose afater at least 28 days to ensure full protection.
Like most vaccines, the Meningitis B vaccine may cause mild side effects, including:
– Redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site
– Fever
– Fatigue or headache
These symptoms are generally mild and subside within a few days. Serious side effects are extremely rare, and the benefits of vaccination far outweigh any risks.
As you embark on this exciting new chapter, prioritising your health should be at the top of your list. Meningitis B can strike quickly and have devastating consequences, but the vaccine offers strong protection.
At Woodstock Road Chemist, we’re here to help make your transition to university life as safe as possible. If you’re planning to attend university this year, make sure to book your Meningitis B vaccine with us before the term begins.
For more information about Meningitis B and the vaccine, visit the NHS website [here], or get in touch with us at Woodstock Road Chemist to discuss your options.
Your health, our priority. Protect yourself with the Meningitis B vaccine today.
We understand that you have a busy schedule, which is why we offer a convenient online booking system for our vaccine clinic.
Appointment slots are for approximately 30 minutes and can be scheduled for a maximum of 2 people (subject to vaccine requirements).
If you have a risk of fainting during vaccinations please message us directly as we may need to extend appointment times.
.
References:
NHS. (2022). Meningitis. Retrieved from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/
Public Health England. (2021). Meningitis B vaccine: what you need to know. Retrieved from: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/meningitis-b-vaccine-what-you-need-to-know
