Local GPs are now inviting teenagers (aged 17 and 18 years) in Surrey and Sussex to take-up a new vaccine which offers them protection against meningitis (inflammation of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning).

NHS England is welcoming the start of this new Meningitis ACWY vaccination programme which protects against these diseases which are caused by four meningococcal strains including Meningitis W.

There were four cases and one death caused by Meningitis W in Surrey and Sussex in 2014.

All teenagers in England aged 17 and 18 (born between 01 September 1996 and 31 August 1997) are eligible for this vaccination and they are now being invited by their local GP to take-up the vaccine as soon as possible.

One local teen, Emily Pearce, (18 years) from Seaford, East Sussex had her vaccination this week and is encouraging her friends to also have their vaccination:

“I had heard of meningitis before but didn’t realise older teenagers like me were at risk. My mum encouraged me to book an appointment.

“When I had my Meningitis ACWY vaccination at my GP surgery I was surprised how quick and painless it was.

“I will now be telling all my mates to contact their GP and go and have their jab too.”

Specifically, it’s important that anyone who plans to go to university this year gets vaccinated before they leave. This group are at increased risk of getting meningococcal disease, as many of them will be mixing closely with lots of new people at university, some of whom may unknowingly carry the meningococcal bacteria.

The vaccine is being introduced in response to a rapidly growing increase in cases of a highly aggressive strain of meningococcal disease, group W. Cases of Meningitis  W have been increasing year-on-year, from 22 cases in 2009 to 117 in 2014. It is currently responsible for around a quarter of all laboratory-confirmed meningococcal cases in England. As well as Meningitis W, the vaccination also protects against other forms of the disease – meningococcal disease types A, C and Y – which can also be fatal or cause long term complications for those affected.

Dr Max Kammerling, Consultant in Public Health Medicine and the Screening and Immunisation Lead for Public Health England (Surrey and Sussex) said: “We are encouraging all eligible teenagers, (born between 1 September 1996 and 31 August 1997) to have the vaccination when they are contacted by their GP.

“If you are a first time university or college entrant aged from 19 to 24 years of age you should also be vaccinated before the start of the academic term or before leaving home for university or college (ideally 2 weeks in advance). Please make an appointment with your GP.

“In addition, we must all remain alert to the signs and symptoms of meningococcal disease and seek urgent medical attention if there is any concern. The disease develops rapidly and early symptoms can include headache, vomiting, muscle pain and fever with cold hands and feet, as well as the well-known rash.

“Meningitis can be deadly, and, even if someone survives, they can be left with severe and disabling after effects, such as brain damage, loss of sight or even losing a limb due to the toxins the bacteria produce

“Be aware of all signs and symptoms and trust your instincts – don’t wait for a rash to develop before seeking urgent medical attention. If someone is ill and getting worse, get medical help immediately.”

Sue Davie, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now, said: “As a charity dealing with the consequences of the disease on a daily basis I would plead directly to parents to make sure that their children get the Men ACWY vaccination. We are particularly concerned with those going to university or college in the autumn as they are at a higher risk from what has been called ‘freshers’ flu’.

“It is critical that young people are not complacent about the disease and they take the necessary steps to protect themselves, stay vigilant and seek urgent medical help if they suspect it.This is a cruel disease, it does not discriminate and could significantly alter the future outlook for young people if they are not protected or meningitis aware.”

Amy Davis from Surrey contracted bacterial meningitis at the age of 18. She said: “I’m reminded every day of the moment I contracted meningitis. In August 2012, after a year and a half of trying to save my leg, there was no choice but to have it amputated. Despite being only in my early twenties I’ve already had a hip replacement and have chronic arthritis in my foot – this is all because of the meningitis. I look at other girls my age and feel so envious when they can go dress and shoe shopping, it makes me so frustrated. Getting the MEN ACWY vaccine is so important for teenagers. The risks of not getting it are just not worth it.”

For more information contact, please contact:

Nicola Hawdon, Communications and Engagement Manager, NHS England (South-East) on 0113 825 1279 / 07557 211742  or Nicola.Hawdon@nhs.net