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There are no routine immunisations advised for young adults. However, you can make sure all your immunisations are up-to-date by checking the Immunisation timetable. You may have missed out as new vaccines have been introduced in the last few years.

Meningitis

• Meningococcal group C is a type of bacteria that can cause meningitis and septicaemia. The MenC vaccine does not protect against meningitis caused by other bacteria or by viruses. Meningococcal C conjugate (MenC) vaccine protects against infection by meningococcal group C.
• Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and can have serious consequences including death. Further information and details of our awareness-raising campaign can be found on our Meningitis page.

Measles Mumps and Rubella

• Many young adults have only had a single dose of MMR vaccine. Today, a second booster dose is recommended to ensure everyone is fully protected against these three serious diseases. As many people are not fully protected, outbreaks of diseases such as mumps occur where many young people gather together as in colleges, universities, barracks and prisons.
• These diseases have not disappeared and can have serious consequences including meningitis, infertility and damage to unborn babies.

It's never too late to be fully protected. If you think you may not be fully protected speak to your doctor, practice nurse or call the NHS Helpline on 0800 22 44 88 for further information.

Reviewed 21 February 2011