Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand have organised a vaccination drop-in centre on Welcome Day, where international and domestic UC students who haven’t already and are keen to do so, can receive FREE vaccinations against the potentially deadly Meningococcal disease, as well as MMR and HPV.
Young people mixing in groups are especially vulnerable to these illnesses, so we strongly recommend vaccination to all students, particularly those in UC halls of residence.
There are no ID requirements, but students will be asked to complete a short consent and information form that will be used to update the national immunisation register.
Your NHI number is not required but will be welcomed if you have it.
- Where: outside Te Whare Hauora | UC Health Centre
- When: Friday 16 February, 9am – 2pm
Why should I get vaccinated?
Meningococcal is an infection that can develop very quickly and can often start with symptoms similar to the common cold, making it difficult to recognise in the early stages.
Meningococcal is caused by bacteria that can lead to two very serious illnesses – Meningitis and Septicaemia. Unless recognised early, this disease can be life threatening and can often have serious long-term effects, including limb amputation, hearing loss, brain injury and permanent skin scarring.
The infection spreads in a similar way as a cold, through coughing, sneezing and saliva (spit).
Meningococcal B (Men B) requires two vaccinations and if you receive your first on Welcome Day, the nurses who tend to you will provide advice on booking your second.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations protect against genital warts, cervical cancer, throat and mouth cancers, and other types of cancers that can affect you later in life.
MMR vaccinations prevent Measles, Mumps and Rubella.
The UC Wellbeing and Meningitis New Zealand teams will have marquees in the info hub [located in the Beatrice Tinsley Plaza] on Welcome Day and can help with any questions you may have about getting vaccinated.
