Measles Guidance - Staying Safe During an Outbreak
Measles is a highly contagious virus and can cause serious health complications. In rare cases, it can be fatal.
Students can be of higher risk of contracting the virus as they tend to be in closer, more regular contact with their peers. For these reasons, it’s important that you take steps to protect yourself and others – and know what to do in the event that you become unwell.
Getting the MMR vaccine
The best way to protect yourself against measles is to have two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, at least 1 month apart. This provides long-term protection for around 99% of people.
If you grew up in the UK, you will probably will have been vaccinated during childhood. If you’re unsure, your family or GP should know.
If you’re not fully vaccinated, now is the time to make it a priority.
- The MMR vaccine is free on the NHS for students who haven't previously had 2 doses (including international students who have paid the NHS surcharge).
- There are no risks to your health if you inadvertently get an extra dose.
ULaw's NHS Guide covers how to book an appointment with a GP (and how to register with a GP if you haven’t already done so).
Symptoms (and what to do if you have them)
Measles spreads between people very easily. It’s therefore very important you isolate yourself if you have these symptoms, or have been in contact with someone else who does. You should also call NHS 111 or (in the case of an emergency) 999.
Days 1-4: Early symptoms (like a severe cold)
- High fever
- Persistent cough
- Runny or blocked nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Feeling generally unwell.
If your initial symptoms persist, check inside your mouth for tiny blue/white ‘Koplik’ spots.
Days 3-5 onwards: rash and fever
- Initially face and hairline – flat red spots…
- then neck and upper trunk…
- spreading downwards to arms, legs, feet (spots may clump together).
You should also contact your GP, who can assess your health and prescribe medication if they believe it is necessary. Your doctor’s notes and prescription can be used as evidence for absences or assessments that you have been unable to sit during your illness.
Any suspected or confirmed carrier of measles must isolate for 4-5 days after the first sign of the rash. This is when the virus is at its most contagious. You should not under any circumstances attend in-person classes or travel to campus during this period.
Absences
Remember you will need you to complete an absence form for any classes you miss. You have five days from the date of your absence in which to do so, so don’t worry if you’re feeling too unwell for the first day or two.
International students on a Student Route visa should also contact the UKVI Student Compliance team at visa-attendance@law.ac.uk as - depending on the length of your absence - you may need to provide medical evidence of your inability to study. The team will be able to advise you further.
We also recommend you reach out to the lecturer whose session you missed, to catch up with any content you've missed.
Assessments
If you are due to sit an assessment during the period you are unwell, you can submit an Extensions, Deferrals and Mitigating Circumstances (EDMC) application to request a deferral or coursework extension. The EDMC section of the Student Hub has the key information you need, including what evidence you can use to support your application and when you can expect to hear back. In the case of sickness, a GP’s note is the best possible evidence.
Additional Support from the SU
The Students’ Union can provide additional support through our Independent Advice Service, including friendly guidance through concessions and appeals processes.
