STUDENTS across Clacks are urged to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date before heading off to college and university this year.

The reminder has been issued by NHS Forth Valley, who warn that infectious diseases such as meningitis, septicaemia and measles can spread easily on campus.

They have also shared facts that students are 11 times more likely to develop meningococcal disease, urging them to vaccinate themselves before progressing to further education.

Fiona Coan, immunisation manager for NHS Forth Valley, said: “These diseases are severe and, in some cases, life threating.

“Students are at increased risk due to the large amounts of mixing with new people in enclosed spaces.

“Increasing cases of measles and meningococcal disease in particular were observed earlier this year.

“Vaccines are the best way to ensure you’re protected, and these are offered for free on the NHS in Scotland.”

Parts of the UK have been seeing a sharp increase in the number of measles cases, with evidence suggesting students are at higher risk.

Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) is proven to be the best protection against these viruses.

Fiona added: “These vaccines are offered as part of the routing childhood immunisation schedule, however if they’ve been missed, it’s not too late to catch up.

“Ideally, they should be given at least two weeks before the new semester starts.”

To find out how to get these vaccines, along with others you may be eligible for, visit nhsinform.scot/vaccinesforstudents.