Posted 1 year ago
Fri 11 Aug, 2023 12:08 PM
We recommend getting important vaccines several weeks before coming to University in Leeds, as it can take several weeks to build your immunity. This will help to protect yourself and others. This is particularly important in halls of residence where you live in close proximity to other students.
If you are unable to get your vaccinations before arrival, please make sure you register with a doctor. You can find out about registering with a doctor in Leeds here.
If you’re an international student travelling to Leeds from outside the UK, bring a record of your vaccinations with you together with other essential documents. Check the COVID-19 travel and safety requirements page for current guidance on travelling to the UK from abroad.
COVID-19
If you have already received a COVID-19 vaccination:
- Bring evidence of any vaccinations you have already had against COVID-19 if you’re travelling to Leeds from outside the UK.
- Register with a doctor and speak to your GP to find out how you can get your vaccinations added to your medical record.
If you have not yet received a COVID-19 vaccination:
All adults aged 18 or over can now get vaccinated against COVID-19 in the UK regardless of their nationality or immigration status. You do not need to wait to be contacted by the NHS or be registered with a doctor.
For further information about the COVID 19 vaccines, please visit the NHSpage.
To get your vaccine you can:
- Speak to your GP about booking your vaccination, if you’ve already registered with a doctor.
- Find out where the walk-in centres are in Leeds. These change weekly.
- Book your COVID-19 vaccination appointment online for an appointment at a vaccination centre or pharmacy.
- Call 119 free of charge, anytime between 7am and 11pm seven days a week. You can call 119 if you have questions or need help with coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccinations, testing and more
You do not need to tell the University if you’ve been vaccinated.
Tuberculosis
International students from listed countries need to be tested at a clinic that has been approved by the Home Office to be able to apply for their UK visa.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a bacterial infection spread through inhaling small droplets from the coughs or sneezes of an infected person. It mainly affects the lungs, but it can affect any part of the body, including the tummy (abdomen), glands, bones and nervous system. Often the symptoms can be similar to COVID-19.
Please see a doctor if you are worried.
Meningitis
Public Health England recommends all adults up to 25 years of age be immunised against meningitis. This vaccine also protects against septicaemia (blood poisoning).
If you haven’t had a Meningitis vaccination before coming to Leeds, make an appointment with your doctor to arrange this.
Meningococcal meningitis/septicaemia is an uncommon illness; however, it can be serious. People with meningitis can become ill very quickly and should seek urgent medical attention. It's important for you to know about the early signs of Meningococcal infection. These include;
- Severe headache
- A high temperature and/or vomiting
- Stiff neck, aching limbs or joints
- A dislike of bright lights (photophobia)
- Drowsiness or confusion
- Muscle pains – especially in the legs
- A fine purple rash which does not fade when pressed with a glass
Not all these symptoms need to be present in all cases.
Many school pupils in the UK ages 13 - 15 have already been vaccinated. If this is the case for you, you do not need to have the vaccine again.
Mumps
In recent years, mumps has been on the increase. This is a disease that although usually mild, can cause more significant infections for some people.
Register with a doctor and get your vaccination as soon as you can.