The NHS has initiated a nationwide catch-up vaccination campaign targeting young people born after 2001, aiming to protect students from meningitis B as they prepare for university life this autumn amid rising infection concerns.
The NHS has launched a large catch-up drive for the meningitis B vaccine, urging young people born after 2001 to come forward in August as the health service races to protect those heading to university this autumn. According to the NHS, almost 90,000 first doses have been given since the campaign began on July 20, with more than 135,000 bookings already made through the national system.
Health officials say the effort is aimed at two main groups: people born between September 1, 2007 and August 31, 2008, and those born on or after July 21, 2001 who are starting university or some residential further education colleges for the first time this autumn. The NHS says there are enough appointments and sufficient stock to vaccinate everyone who is eligible, with thousands of community pharmacies helping to deliver the service.
The timing reflects concern about meningococcal B, a bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and sepsis, both of which can be fatal or leave lasting damage such as hearing loss, brain injury or limb loss. Public health advice also warns that the bacteria spread through close contact, including kissing, sharing drinks or vapes and living in shared accommodation. University students are at particular risk, with NHS figures indicating that first-year students face a rate of infection about seven times higher than that of other people their age.
The campaign comes after experts on the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation advised that teenagers should be offered the MenB vaccine on the NHS, following a series of outbreaks and deaths this year, including one in Kent. ITV reported that the committee recommended one or two doses at age 15 depending on vaccination history, alongside catch-up programmes for those who missed earlier protection, although that advice still awaits government approval. Separately, NHS leaders and pharmacy representatives have welcomed the rollout, saying community pharmacies have moved quickly to support what they describe as a crucial public health programme.
Two doses are needed for best protection, at least 28 days apart, and the NHS is urging those eligible not to leave booking too late. Caroline Temmink, the NHS director of vaccination, said the programme had got off to a strong start and stressed that the second dose is vital before the new academic year begins. Baroness Merron, the health minister, said she was encouraged by the response so far and urged anyone who had not yet booked to do so in August.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
