External Activity > Robert Gordon University Healthcare Students > Immunisation Programmes

As a healthcare student you may be exposed to infectious hazards during your course and in certain circumstances may also transmit infection to patients.

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) NHS Grampian has a statutory responsibility to protect staff from the risk of infection and appropriate immunisation will be offered to staff and others who may be at risk.

Immunisations are not mandatory. However, in accordance with the current Department of Health (DH) guidance, which is regularly updated and reviewed, students should protect patients, colleagues and themselves by being immunised against serious communicable diseases.

It is important to remember that the most effective method for preventing infections is by adoption of safe working practices. Immunisation should never be regarded as a substitute for good working practice.

The current Immunisations recommended as per the Department of health guidelines are:

Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) – We will require you to provide evidence of immunity or certification of two MMR immunisations as already given via your GP, this will need to be submitted with your completed health questionnaire. Immuno-supressed patients and young children are particularly at risk of severe complications if they contract this disease so their protection is dependent on not being exposed to this disease. Therefore it is important that students are immunised to prevent exposing their patients to a potential risk of infection.

Tuberculosis (TB) – Evidence of a BCG scar, immunity and freedom from TB disease. This is to ensure that both the patient and the student are protected from contracting this disease.

Varicella (Chickenpox) – History of the disease or blood test confirming immunity, if you have no immunity you will receive the immunisation (if applicable).Varicella can be a serious disease if contracted in immunosuppressed patients, pregnant women and babies.

Hepatitis B (Hep B) – Immunisation and a blood test to confirm immunity to be offered to all students. This is a course of three Hep B vaccinations. Hep B vaccination is given to ensure that students are protected from contracting this disease in the event of a ‘needle stick’ or sharps injury.

Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis and Polio – please ask your GP to ensure you are up to date with these immunisations.