Meningococcal group B bacteria can cause serious, life threatening illnesses including meningitis, an infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord, and septicaemia, also known as blood poisoning. These illnesses can become serious very quickly and, in some cases, can cause life changing disabilities such as hearing loss, brain damage and amputations. They can also be fatal.
The bacteria that cause MenB can spread through close contact, including kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, and living closely with other people. Young people starting university are at a higher risk because they are often meeting lots of new people and living in shared accommodation. Data shows that first year university students are around 7 times more likely to develop meningococcal disease than young people of a similar age who do not go to university.
However, uptake of the vaccine has remained low. Figures from the UK Health Security Agency show that, as of 20 September, just 23.2% of eligible young people in the West Midlands had received their first dose, meaning more than three quarters are still unprotected.
Those eligible for the free vaccine include young people born between 1 September, 2007 and 31 August, 2008 and anyone born on or after 21 July, 2001 who started university or a residential further education college for the first time this autumn.
Two doses of the vaccine are needed, at least 28 days apart, and eligible young people are encouraged to book as soon as possible to receive maximum protection. The first dose can be given until 31 December, 2026 with second doses available until 31 March, 2027.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: "Many young people will already have started university and settled into student life, but it is not too late to protect yourself against meningitis B.
"We know that students are at greater risk because they are living, studying and socialising closely with lots of new people. Earlier this year, outbreaks of meningitis B tragically led to deaths and left some survivors facing life changing health consequences.
"The vaccine offers important protection against this serious disease, so if you are eligible and have not yet been vaccinated, please book your appointment as soon as possible."
Eligible young people can book through the NHS National Booking Service at Manage your health. The vaccination is available through participating community pharmacies.
