Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB
Over the next couple of weeks thousands of students will be heading off to university for the first time, and the NHS is encouraging every one of them to have a potentially life-saving vaccine before they go.
The new meningitis B (MenB) vaccine is offered for free at local pharmacies for people born between 1st September 2007 and 31st August 2008, or those starting university or residential college for the first time this autumn.
Ellie Swinburn from Mansfield is preparing to embark on an exciting new chapter studying Law at the University of Exeter, and has taken the important step to protect of having the Men B vaccine.
“Starting university is a big milestone, and I wanted to make sure I was fully protected before I go,” she said. “Keeping my vaccinations up to date gives me peace of mind as I begin this next stage of my education.
“The process was straightforward and convenient – I simply booked both appointments online at my local pharmacy. The injections were quick and easy, and I know it was the right decision before heading to Exeter.”
Meningococcal B infection can cause serious illnesses including meningitis and sepsis (blood poisoning) and can, in some instances, lead to life-changing disabilities including hearing loss, brain damage or limb loss. It can also be fatal.
First-year students living in halls of residence or shared accommodation are around seven times more likely to develop the disease than young people of a similar age who do not attend university.
The bacteria can spread through close contact such as kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or prolonged contact in shared living spaces.
Two doses of the vaccine are needed – given at least 28 days apart – so eligible young people are encouraged to book as soon as possible to ensure they are fully protected as the autumn term begins.
Dr Dave Briggs, Executive Director of Outcomes (Medical) for the Cluster of Derby & Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, and Nottingham & Nottinghamshire Integrated Care Boards said: “This week thousands of students will be heading off to university for the first time. While this is a very exciting time, it also brings new health risks as young people begin living, studying and socialising with large groups of people.
“This vaccination provides protection against Meningitis B which can develop very quickly and have devastating consequences, even in otherwise healthy young adults.
“To date 4,999 eligible 17 and 18-year-olds have received the vaccine across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire. If you’re not one of them but you are eligible for the vaccine, I would strongly urge you to book an appointment as soon as possible and ensure you’ve received both doses.
“A few minutes spent booking the vaccine now could help prevent a life-threatening illness later.”
Those born between 1st September 2007 and 31st August 2008, including people born between those dates who are in employment or training, are eligible for the vaccine. Under 25s starting university this autumn or entering residential further education for the first time – including international students – are also eligible.
Eligible 17 and 18-year-olds can book through the NHS National Booking Service. Other eligible students can find a participating community pharmacy offering walk-in vaccinations.
