News on the spread of swine flu is emerging daily, but what risk does the virus pose for students?
In the past fortnight 4459 cases of the H1N1 virus have been reported in Europe, with the UK confirming the highest number of cases. More than half of the UK cases have been in those aged less than 20 years old.
In June 2009 the Health Protection Agency confirmed that ten students at Exeter University were amongst those UK students diagnosed with the virus and receiving medical care, but the national statistics remain unconfirmed.
A spokesperson for the Health Protection Agency said the national office for the HPA doesn't have a central database of confirmed cases in universities as "these issues are dealt with in the regions" but added that the disease has "disproportionately affected younger people".
"Our message remains that if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms then you should self-isolate to reduce the risk of transmission to others," she said.
The advice is especially pertinent given last week's headlines suggesting some people are throwing 'swine flu parties' in an attempt to get immunity against the virus while it is a fairly mild form.
Their thinking is that it is best to be infected before the winter when the virus could become more deadly, but doctors are warning against this.
Speaking at the British Medical Conference in Liverpool last week, public health chairman Dr Richard Jarvis said such behaviour could undermine the fight against the flu.
He said: "I have heard of reports of people throwing swine flu parties.
"I don't think it is a good idea. I would not want it myself. It is quite a mild virus, but people still get ill and there is a risk of mortality."
The HPA advice backs this up clearly: "Even with mild influenza, complications can occur, leading to more serious illness. We therefore strongly advise people to avoid intentionally infecting themselves with the virus for their own safety and the safety of any vulnerable people they may unintentionally infect."
Click here for full HPA guidance.
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