New students start college in England very soon. Many young people live close together in dorm rooms. Germs can pass between students very fast. A bad illness can make people very sick. Doctors want to stop this sickness right now. They offer a free shot to all students.
This special shot stops a dangerous brain illness. The illness is called meningitis B. It hurts young adults more than older people. Doctors see more sick people this year than before. A big outbreak happened in Kent earlier this year. Health workers want to stop the sickness from spreading.
What Is Meningitis
Meningitis is a very scary and bad disease. It attacks the brain and the spinal cord. Sick people get a high fever and bad headaches. Their necks get very stiff and hurt a lot. Some spots can appear on their skin too. The disease can make people very sick fast.
Doctors take sick people to the hospital right away. The sickness can kill people in just one day. Survivors can lose their arms or their legs. This illness changes people and their families forever. Nobody wants to catch this terrible germ at school. Doctors work hard to protect every single student.
Who Can Get It
Any new student can get this free shot. You qualify if you start university this fall. Students under age twenty-five can get the shot. Older students can also ask for the shot today. Doctors want all new students to get help. You just need to visit a local health clinic.
Some students already got the shot as babies. But that old shot wears off over time. Young adults need a fresh shot for college. The new shot gives your body extra fighting power. Parents feel much safer when their kids get it. Students stay healthy and enjoy their classes more.
How To Get Help
You can call your local doctor right now. You can also visit a campus health nurse. They give the shot for free to students. The process takes only a very short time. Your arm might feel a little sore later. That small pain goes away in a day.
College life is fun and full of friends. You do not want to spend it in bed. Getting the shot keeps your body strong and safe. Talk to your family about the health shot. Plan to get your shot before classes start. Stay healthy and have a great year at school.