‘Freshers’ urged to get their jab against meningitis and septicaemia now

‘Freshers’ urged to get their jab against meningitis and septicaemia

School leavers, particularly those going to university or college next month, are being strongly encouraged to get vaccinated against meningococcal disease.

Last month Public Health England (PHE) advised all school leavers, but especially ‘freshers’, to get the jab from their GP to protect against this deadly disease.

By the end of August only 17% nationally of all 18-year-olds leaving school – not just those going on to university – have been vaccinated, according to data from GP surgeries.

Figures available across the North West show that rates of take-up among those eligible are largely below the national average.

New students are being targeted as they are at greatest risk because they mix closely with large groups of new people, some of whom unknowingly carry the bacteria, allowing it to spread more quickly.

With Freshers’ weeks about to get underway, PHE North West is renewing the call for teenagers to get this highly effective, potentially life-saving injection, from their GP – either at home or near where they will be studying.

Dr Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunisation at PHE, said: “It’s only a month since we first made our appeal to these teenagers, so we know many will still be making arrangements to get vaccinated. But I strongly urge those who haven’t done so to get their injection now. If you’re not registered with a GP yet at university, get registered and get your jab.”

Linda Glennie, Head of Research at Meningitis Research Foundation, said: “In the first few days of university, exposure to the bacteria that cause meningitis increases dramatically. It is vital that new students get this vaccine now to protect themselves and to stop the spread to others.”

Liz Brown, CEO at Meningitis Now, said: “Recognising that students are about to move their universities of choice means that their chances of getting vaccinated at their home GP may be lost - this doesn’t mean they should forget about it. The vaccine is available via the university health service, it’s still free and it should be a priority. I would call on young people not to miss out on a vaccine that could save their life.”