AS THE North West welcomes new students to the region, the NHS and UK Health Security Agency are encouraging all students to ensure they have the NHS care they require as they begin their university studies.

When packing up to move, regional health bosses want to encourage all students to download the NHS App and make sure they are registered with a GP.  The NHS App is a handy tool that helps people manage their health.  Available 24/7, it’s a simple and secure way to order repeat prescriptions, find local NHS services, get reminders and messages and much more.  Just make sure notifications are switched on, and you’re good to go.

Last year, over a quarter of a million* students started their studies at universities across the North West, many moving far from home and living independently for the first time.

Dr Paula Cowan is a local GP and Regional Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England in the North West.  She said, “After the pressure of exams and the enjoyment of the summer break, September brings exciting firsts for young people across our region and beyond as they embark on an exciting milestone in their lives.

“Many are moving to new cities and towns, some far from loved ones and it’s really important they make sure they register with a GP and download the NHS App to ensure they have the care they need if fall ill or need health advice.”

“We want to ensure students are as protected as possible against illness and as we move towards the colder months, viruses like flu will start to circulate.  Young people aren’t immune to this, even if they are normally fit and well, those with long term health conditions like asthma are at risk of becoming really poorly if they catch it.”

In addition, the app gives access to medical records enabling people to check if they are up to date with preventative vaccinations, which is especially important when students are mixing more in the first few weeks of term, as this is when we see a rise in the prevalence of viruses.

Measles has been circulating in the area and young adults are also at higher risk of getting meningococcal disease, causing fever, rash, signs of sepsis and/or meningitis.  The MenACWY vaccine the best protection against disease and also reduces the risk of other people becoming infected.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine provides vital protection against HPV-related cancers. If students missed the HPV vaccine in high school, including girls under the age of 25 and boys born after 1 September 2006, they can catch up at their GP practice.

Mark McGivern, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA North West, said:

“Starting university is exciting, and looking after your health should be part of preparing for this new chapter. I’d encourage all students to check you’re up to date with free NHS vaccines before term starts.

“We’ve recently seen measles cases in our region, so ensure you’ve had both MMR doses. Measles can be serious in young adults and spreads rapidly, but it’s completely preventable – contact your GP or go on the NHS App to check your records.

“Make sure you’ve had your MenACWY vaccine, which protects against several types of meningitis. If you missed it at school, you can still get it free until age 25. Know the signs too – sudden severe headache, stiff neck, or a rash that doesn’t fade under pressure means seek medical help immediately.

“For those sexually active, condoms are highly effective at reducing STI risk. Sexual health services can also offer additional vaccines protecting against hepatitis A and B to eligible individuals. These confidential, non-judgmental services are designed to keep you healthy. Find your local clinic here Find a sexual health clinic – NHS.

“Prevention is always better than treatment – these vaccines are free, safe, and effective ways to protect yourself and fellow students.”