WELSH Universities need to make measles vaccination a priority, according to an Assembly member.

William Powell, AM for Mid and West Wales said: “The recent measles outbreak in Swansea and the ongoing threat of meningitis have made it all the more essential that new and returning students take the time over the summer to ensure that they are fully vaccinated before Freshers’ Week starts next September.”

Students coming to Swansea are reminded that being vaccinated against meningitis, measles, mumps and rubella is a requirement to enrol.

A large outbreak of measles in Swansea saw a increase of 19 Welsh cases in 2011 to 1,158 in the six months between November 2012 and May 2013.

A University spokesperson said: “New students joining the University are advised, in their joining pack, to ensure their immunisation is up to date including MMR and Meningitis C.

“At the time of the outbreak students already on campus were advised on how to access vaccination points and signposted to Local Health Board and NHS websites for further information.

“We will continue to monitor the latest information and advice from Public Health Wales on any health issue which may arise and take any appropriate action recommended by them.”