Young people in the South West urged to book life-saving vaccine at high street pharmacies
Students who are heading to university this autumn are being urged to book a potentially life-saving Meningitis B vaccine before they leave home.
The limited-time vaccination programme launched last week with thousands of appointments being offered across the region.
High street pharmacies throughout the South West are offering the vital protection for those eligible including 17 and 18-year-olds born between 1st September 2007 and 31st August 2008 and those under 25, born on or after 21 July 2001, who are starting university or residential further education for the first time this autumn.
Bookings can be made for 17 and 18-year-olds via the NHS National Booking Service but those who are in the under 25 age cohort will need to book their first dose direct with their local pharmacy. Two doses of the vaccine are needed for protection and appointments should be booked at least 28 days apart.
Matthew Dominey, Screening and Immunisation Lead for NHS England South West, said: “Meningitis B can cause serious, life-threatening problems and in some cases, it can sadly lead to death.
“Students who are in their first year of university have a risk that is about seven times higher than that of people of a similar age who do not go to university.
“This is because the bacteria that causes the Meningitis B disease can be spread through activities such as kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or being close contact with the person for long periods of time, such as living in the same home.
“Getting the vaccine now gives students enough time to get both doses before they head to university – helping them gain important protection against MenB before cases typically rise in the autumn.”
Catriona Ketiar, Chief Pharmacist at NHS England South West, said: “We know the risk of Meningitis B is higher for those in their first year of university, as you spend lots of time with new friends in close environments.
“High street pharmacies are offering Meningitis B vaccinations for all eligible young people. 17 to 18-year-olds can book an appointment on the NHS National Booking Service and those who are under 25 and eligible as they are going to residential further education for the first time in the autumn should book directly with their local pharmacy.
“If you’re heading to university, take the time before you leave home to get your meningitis vaccine, to help protect yourself. Meningitis B can be deadly, so don’t leave it to chance.”
Beth Smout, Regional Deputy Director of Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “The risk of MenB rises sharply for young people starting university, where mixing closely with so many new people increases exposure to the bacteria.
“For students across the South West heading off to universities this autumn, getting both doses of the vaccine over the summer will provide robust protection against most Meningococcal strains, offering vital peace of mind as they take this next big step. Don’t wait. Book your appointment today.”
When asked about why she was getting the MenB vaccine, Liv, a student from Dorset, said: “It protects against serious illnesses such as septicaemia, sepsis and meningitis.
“I think everybody that can, should get vaccinated because as a first year we’re at a higher risk by living in halls.”
There have been more clusters of Meningitis B cases than normal this year, some of which have been bigger than expected. This includes an outbreak in Dorset, as well as a larger outbreak in Kent.
However, evidence from the UK infant vaccination programme shows that vaccination has led to around a 75% reduction Meningitis among eligible vaccinated groups.
For more information or to book a Meningitis B vaccination appointment at your local high street pharmacy, visit Book a MenB vaccination appointment – NHS.