Heading off to Uni: What parents need to know

Heading Off to Uni: What Parents Need to Know About Vaccines, Sexual Health and Starting Strong

As your young person packs their bags for university this autumn, there’s more for parents to consider than just bedding and kitchenware. Transitioning to university is exciting, but also brings health challenges where a little planning makes all the difference.

Why Vaccinations Matter More Than Ever

University means a sudden mix of people from all over the country, living, studying and socializing together. This can make campuses hotspots for illnesses that are easily spread—but the good news is, vaccines offer great protection.

MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella)

It’s essential to check your child’s immunisation history to ensure they’ve had two doses of the MMR vaccine. Measles outbreaks have occurred in recent years, sometimes affecting student populations. If they’ve missed a second dose or are unsure, it’s simple to get up to date by contacting your GP.

Meningitis ACWY

Meningitis can be deadly and spreads more easily in communal living—think halls and shared houses. The NHS offers the MenACWY vaccine for free to young people heading to university. It protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria. It’s highly recommended, even if not compulsory; encourage your child to book this before they go, or as soon as possible after term starts.

Hepatitis B

While less common in the UK, Hepatitis B can be caught from sexual contact or shared personal items like toothbrushes or razors. Some universities suggest Hepatitis B vaccinations, especially for courses in healthcare or where travel abroad is likely.

Contraception and Sexual Health

Starting university often brings new independence—including choices about relationships and sexual health. They’ll get sex education sessions at school, but a refresher from a trusted adult is worth its weight in gold.

• Contraception: Condoms are the only contraception that protect against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Encourage having a supply on hand and knowing where to access sexual health services on campus.
• Free and confidential support: Most university campuses offer free clinics or links to local NHS services for contraception, STI checks, or just advice.
• Vaccines and sexual health: The HPV vaccine is also now offered to all teens in the UK, which protects against viruses linked to cervical, other genital, and some throat cancers. Check your child has had this too.

Top Tips for Parents

• Dig out those old red books or “health records” and check immunization dates.
• If in doubt, schedule a quick appointment with your child’s GP before they leave for uni. Most catch-up vaccines are available free on the NHS for this age group.
• Chat openly about sexual health and contraception. Make sure they know where to find support, and reassure them it’s confidential.
• Remind them that taking care of their health is a basic adult skill—no shame in asking questions or booking a clinic visit!
• Encourage registering with a GP at university, so they know how to get help if they do feel unwell.

 

University is a fantastic adventure—and a bit of practical health planning sets them up for a safe, confident start.

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Health Update with Dr Rosie