Keeping on top of your general health

Meningitis is always of concern and should be taken seriously. It is inflammation of the lining of the brain caused by different types of organisms which are either viruses or bacteria.

One in ten people at any time are carrying the bacteria which cause these diseases. We pass them between each other by regular close contact, such as kissing. Mostly these bacteria don't make us ill, but in a very few people they get into the blood stream and cause meningitis or meningitis blood poisoning. Nobody knows who is at risk, so make sure you know the symptoms.

It is strongly recommended that you get vaccinated before coming to college or university. Further information on vaccinations, symptoms and treatments can be found in our leaflet or by visiting the NHS website or the Meningitis Research Foundation website.

Further information is also available from Immunisation Scotland, the meningitis guide for parents and guardians and from Meningitis Now.

This disease can kill in hours if not treated, if concerned call the 24 hour helpline on 0808 800 3344.

We continue to take all reasonable steps to protect staff, students, and stakeholders from COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccination and boosters
If you aren't vaccinated, you should consider getting vaccinated. The Government vaccine program is open to all students. SRUC strongly encourages all staff and students who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine or booster. See the NHS Scotland website to find out how to arrange a vaccine appointment.

Covid-19 Testing
As part of the Scottish Government's Test and Protect Transition Plan, people with COVID-19 symptoms are no longer advised that they need to seek a PCR test. The public health advice for people who feel unwell will be to stay at home until they feel better, to reduce the risk of infecting other people. SRUC encourages any students who would like to continue LFD testing to do so. Asymptomatic LFD kits will remain available while we have stocks.

Testing positive for Covid-19
If you test positive for coronavirus, you should follow the revised guidance from NHS Inform and stay at home for 3 days if you're 18 years and under, or for 5 days if you're over 18 years. NOTE - Day 1 is the day after you took your LFD test.

The public health advice for people who feel unwell is to stay at home until they feel better, to reduce the risk of infecting other people. and should follow guidance on staying at home if unwell.

We are here to support you if you test positive or need to self-isolate. Your year tutor or faculty office will be able to advise you and signpost you to sources of support if you are unable to engage with your studies or cannot attend campus for in-person classes.

Physical distancing
We strongly encourage all staff, students and stakeholders to keep 1 metre physical distancing when transiting inside buildings, such as through corridors, communal areas, libraries and canteens. Please keep to the left when moving down corridors.

Face coverings
Staff, students and stakeholders are strongly encouraged to still wear face coverings whilst transiting inside SRUC buildings, such as corridors, communal areas, libraries and canteens.

Hygiene and cleaning
Staff, students and stakeholders must continue to follow good hand hygiene procedures on arrival and leaving the work/study area, as well as before eating, drinking or smoking. They must wash their hands for 20 seconds with soap and water and dry them thoroughly, or use alcohol-based sanitiser.

Shared equipment and frequently touched surfaces must be disinfected at the end of each use and again before the next use.

Ventilation
Buildings must continue to be ventilated, by the opening of doors and windows, to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Student accommodation
Students in SRUC accommodation have a personal responsibility to comply with this guidance and adopt and maintain safe behaviours to protect themselves and other people.

Our Covid-19 policies and procedures page has full details on all steps SRUC is taking against Covid-19.