Monday 07-09-2026 - 16:03

Llongyfarchiadau, congratulations on getting your place at uni! You might be thinking, what’s next? And there’s a lot to consider, and we have many ways to help you with that, including our handy checklist

Something that can help protect you as you head to uni, however, is to make sure that if you haven’t already, that you get your meningitis vaccination! If you’re under 25, or, if you’re a first-time university entrant, check in with your GP and local NHS about how to protect yourself against the meningococcal bacteria, and make sure to get vaccinated at least two weeks before term starts. 

What is Meningitis?

Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and the spinal cord, and it can affect anyone, of any age, at any time. Last year there was an outbreak of meningitis at other universities, and we want our students to feel as safe as they can coming to uni, so we wanted to let you know about some of the things you can do to help with that! 

So what can you do?

Check your vaccination records with your GP surgery. If you need a top up or haven’t had this or other vaccines yet, get booked in, and try to get it so you have your final vaccine at least two weeks before term starts. It might be the MenACWY vaccine, or the two-dose MenB vaccine which you’ll be offered if your records show you haven’t had them yet. And if you’re an international student, get registered at a local GP and you will also be eligible if you haven’t already had it, or, if you’ve had a first dose and need a second. Just have your records with you! 

We’re getting super excited for the upcoming academic year, and we’re ready to welcome you. We look forward to seeing you around on campus, and make sure to check out all the pop ups, events, and more, hosted by the people in purple!

Freshers 2026/27

 

Meningitis Resources:

Getting the MenB vaccine ahead of starting university or college  – The Education Hub

Meningitis in students – what you need to know | UCAS

Meningitis in students - Information and advice | Meningitis Now

MenB Vaccine for UK Students & Young People | Meningitis Now | Meningitis Now

MenB vaccine for young people - Public Health Wales