Health Alerts

Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacteria called neisseria meningitidis and can develop into sepsis, septicaemia, or meningitis. Meningococcal disease is commonly spread by close and prolonged exposure, such as when living closely to others. 

It is a medical emergency, and needs to be taken seriously. While it's rare, it can quickly develop into a serious illness. 

We recommend that all students get vaccinated, especially if you're a student living in residential colleges, apartments and other shared accommodation, since your risk of getting meningococcal disease can be much higher.

We offer the following vaccinations:

• Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) vaccine which provides protection against serogroups A, C, W and Y. This is one dose and costs $85. 
• Meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine which protects against some strains of meningococcal serogroup B. This requires two doses and costs $140 per dose.

You may have received the MenACWY vaccine as a child if you grew up in Australia. It's important to check if you have been vaccinated before, so check your immunisation statement on MyGov (domestic students) or your immunisation record from your home country (international students).

More comprehensive information is available one our vaccination webpage. Appointments with the Health Service are bulk-billed for all UNSW students by Medicare or OSHC. 

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Nitrous Oxide, also known as "nangs" or "whippets" is a colourless, odourless gas that is sometimes used as a recreational drug. Using nitrous oxide as a party drug can have serious and harmful effects on the body. 

Long-term and frequent use increases your risk of harmful and potentially irreversible effects such as: 

• Nerve problems, including nerve damage, because of Vitamin B12 loss (essential for nerve health)
• Permanent damage to the brain and spinal cord
• Blackouts
• Asphyxia (loss of oxygen in the body
• And much more

The best way to prevent harm is to stop nitrous oxide use early. You can get help by: 

• Calling the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline (24/7) on 1800 250 015
• Learning more about nitrous oxide on Your Room by NSW Health
• Speak confidentially and privately to a GP (doctor) at the Health Service 

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If you do choose to use nitrous oxide recreationally, consider: 

• Using it in a safe, well-ventilated room with airflow 
• Avoiding consumption alcohol or other drugs at the same time
• Having long and several breaks between hits to allow Vitamin B12 stores to rebuild 
• Reducing long-term and heavy usage 
• Always having someone you trust close by
• And if you have persistent tingling or numb hands or feet, contact a doctor immediately 

Other resources: 

South Eastern Sydney Drug and Alcohol Services

English Fact Sheet (NSW Health)

Chinese (Simplified) Fact Sheet (NSW Health)

Your Room 

If you are a student who needs non-medical help or support, you should contact The Nucleus or Student Support Advisors. 

For mental health support, visit Psychology and Wellness. You can access 24/7 mental health support through our mental health line on (02) 9385 5418, or text 0485 826 595 for confidential one-to-one chat after-hours, including public holidays and weekends. More details are on the website. 

The Health Service can also support you with your mental health. Speak to your doctor about what support is available for you. 

All staff can access Converge, our EAP Provider at UNSW. They offer free and confidential counselling, as well as a suite of health and wellbeing services to support you. 

For emergencies, visit the our emergency information.