Somerset students heading to university this autumn are being urged to book a potentially life-saving vaccine at local high street pharmacies before they leave home.
Health leaders say young people across the South West, including those from Somerset, face a sharply increased risk of Meningitis B when they start university - about seven times higher than their peers who stay at home.
The limited-time vaccination programme launched last week, with thousands of appointments being offered across the region.
The NHS are calling on eligible students to get protected over the summer, so both doses of the vaccine have been secured before term begins.
Read more
'Miracle' Somerset baby beat the odds to survive brain tumour
'A huge shock' - Somerset man suffers near-fatal cardiac arrest playing football
Race to save one of Somerset's rarest habitats in multi-million pound appeal
High street pharmacies throughout Somerset and the wider South West are now offering Meningitis B vaccinations to 17 and 18-year-olds born between September 1 2007 and August 31 2008, and to those born on or after 21 July 2001, who are starting university or residential further education for the first time this autumn.
The health authority says two doses of the vaccine are needed, and appointments should be booked at least 28 days apart.
Bookings for 17 and 18-year-olds can be made via the NHS National Booking Service. Those in the under-25 group starting university or residential further education need to arrange their first dose directly with a local pharmacy, with more information available on the NHS website.
"Kissing, sharing drinks or vapes" boosts Meningitis B risk
Matthew Dominey, Screening and Immunisation Lead for NHS England South West, said: "Meningitis B can cause serious, life-threatening problems and in some cases, it can sadly lead to death.
"Students who are in their first year of university have a risk that is about seven times higher than that of people of a similar age who do not go to university.
Mr Dominey explains: "This is because the bacteria that causes the Meningitis B disease can be spread through activities such as kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or being close contact with the person for long periods of time, such as living in the same home.
"Getting the vaccine now gives students enough time to get both doses before they head to university – helping them gain important protection against MenB before cases typically rise in the autumn."
"Don't leave it to chance", health officials say
Catriona Ketiar, Chief Pharmacist at NHS England South West, said: "If you’re heading to university, take the time before you leave home to get your meningitis vaccine, to help protect yourself. Meningitis B can be deadly, so don’t leave it to chance."
Beth Smout, Regional Deputy Director of Health Protection at UKHSA, added: "For students across the South West heading off to universities this autumn, getting both doses of the vaccine over the summer will provide robust protection against most Meningococcal strains, offering vital peace of mind as they take this next big step.
He added: "Don't wait. Book your appointment today."
Health officials say there have been more clusters of Meningitis B cases than normal this year, some larger than expected, including an outbreak in Dorset and a bigger outbreak in Kent.
However, evidence from the UK infant vaccination programme shows vaccination has led to around a 75% reduction in meningitis among eligible vaccinated groups.
Somerset students are being encouraged to check if they're eligible and, if they are due to move away to university or college, to book appointments now rather than waiting until the autumn.
Further information and booking details for Meningitis B vaccination appointments at local high street pharmacies are available via the NHS website.
Share