2222 October 2, 2012 Call: 01326 213333

AS TEENAGERS arrive to start the new year inuniversity and college, they need to be aware ofmore than just their studies if they want to ensurethey enjoy student life.

Living, working and socialising together,students are what is known as a “closecommunity” – which means when somebody hasan infectious disease, chances are others will too.

These include tonsillitis/glandular fever and flu,which, not to be confused with a common cold,will leave someone very unwell.

At-risk groups can ask for flu jabs, but thereare no vaccines for glandular fever.

If you have a sore, swollen throat and get veryunwell, see your GP then make sure you get

plenty of rest. Teenagers are one of the most at-risk groups for meningitis C, which can be fatal ifnot treated immediately.

Most UK teenagers will have been vaccinatedat school, but if they were not, it is not too late.

Being aware of the symptoms is alsoimportant, and these typically include a fever,severe headache and drowsiness, vomiting, stiffneck, and the tell-tale red rash.

Another immunisation this age group shouldconsider, is the MMR jab, which protects againstmeasles, mumps and rubella.

Again, if you didn't have the jab as a baby andare concerned, speak to your GP.

LifeStyle

Get the jabs you need