HPA warns of meningitis and measles risk

23 September 2011

The Health Protection Agency is reminding students about the importance of receiving the MMR and Men C vaccinations before they return to university, where outbreaks can occur.

There were 777 confirmed cases of measles reported to the Health Protection Agency in England and Wales up to the end of July 2011, compared with a provisional total of 374 cases for the whole of 2010. Those cases were mainly in children or young adults and have been associated with small clusters in universities and schools, with many of the patients unvaccinated.

In 2010 there were 896 cases of meningococcal infection, which is one of the most common causes of meningitis. Like with measles, children and young adults are disproportionately affected with meningococcal infection.

Dr Mary Ramsay, head of the immunization department at the Health Protection Agency, said: “Measles and meningitis are infections that can both be fatal, it is absolutely vital that all students ensure they are completely up to date with all their vaccinations, especially the MMR and Men C vaccine.

“University bars and campuses where lots of students are in close proximity is an ideal place for bacteria and viruses to spread which is why we may see more outbreaks of these infections in this environment.”

Students are advised to register with a doctor as early as possible following their arrival in Bournemouth and can do this at the Medical Centre on Talbot Campus.