A new nationwide vaccination programme aimed at protecting young people against Meningitis B (MenB) has commenced across the UK. The initiative, described by the NHS as a 'life-saving jab', is being rolled out to approximately one million individuals aged between 15 and 25. This age group is considered the second most vulnerable to the disease, especially those living in close proximity, such as university halls of residence.
Michelle Bresnahan, whose son Ryan tragically died from MenB in 2010 at the age of 16, is a passionate advocate for the new vaccine. Speaking about her 'funny and talented' son, Ms Bresnahan emphasised the critical importance of young people taking up the vaccination. At the time of Ryan's death, no MenB vaccine was available for young people, a circumstance she deeply regrets. "Vaccination saves lives and we never had that opportunity. We never had that available to us. It's so important people do take up the vaccination that's offered," she stated.
The one-off programme has been introduced as a precautionary measure following the largest and fastest-growing MenB outbreak recorded in the UK this spring in Kent. Further "unusual" clusters were also identified in Weymouth, Dorset, and Reading, Berkshire, alongside isolated cases across the country. Prior to this rollout, the MenB vaccine, which is the only protection against the bacteria responsible for 82.6% of UK meningitis cases, was only routinely offered on the NHS to young children who were deemed most at risk.
The new two-dose vaccine is specifically targeted at pupils in Year 13 in England and Wales, Year 14 in Northern Ireland, and S6 in Scotland. It also extends to individuals aged 18 to 25 who are commencing university or residential further education for the first time in the autumn. Symptoms of MenB include a severe headache, high temperature, and a rash, with the bacteria spreading through close contact such as kissing, sharing vapes or drinks, or living in close quarters.
Bookings for the vaccine can be made at pharmacies across England, with appointments available now. Seventeen and eighteen-year-olds registered with a GP can book via the NHS National Booking Service. Other eligible students under the age of 25 heading to a residential college or university this autumn for the first time can also contact a participating pharmacy for a walk-in MenB vaccine, provided they were born on or after 21 July 2001.