Tens of thousands of young people have received the first of a two-dose meningitis B vaccine regimen, just two weeks after the NHS initiated its largest ever catch-up campaign. As of Friday, 31 July, 89,261 first doses had been administered.
The programme, which began on 20 July, aims to protect young people, many of whom are preparing to start university in September. The NHS National Booking Service has already received more than 135,000 bookings for future appointments.
Meningococcal B infection can lead to severe, life-threatening conditions such as inflammation of the brain lining and sepsis, potentially causing life-changing disabilities or proving fatal. The bacteria can spread through close contact, including kissing, sharing drinks, or prolonged cohabitation.
First-year university students face a risk of infection approximately seven times higher than young people of a similar age who do not attend university. Eligible individuals include those born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, and those born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting university or certain residential further education colleges this autumn.
Two doses of the vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart, are required for protection. Caroline Temmink, NHS Director of Vaccination, stated that the campaign will continue to gather pace, working with pharmacies to deliver thousands more vaccines. Health and Social Care Minister Baroness Merron encouraged eligible individuals to get both doses for full protection.