Experts are warning that time is running out for young people in the UK to receive vaccinations against meningitis B, as new data reveals significantly low participation in a government-backed campaign. Figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show that only 28.2% of 18- and 19-year-olds have received their first dose in the one-off initiative.
The campaign was launched in June following an unprecedented outbreak of meningitis B in Kent earlier this year. The outbreak resulted in three deaths and left several survivors with lifelong health consequences. Clusters of cases were also identified in Dorset and Berkshire, prompting the government to introduce a time-limited programme offering two doses of the vaccine to young adults.
Urgent Deadline for First Dose
Dr Shamez Ladhani, a consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, emphasized that the window to act is closing. He stated that the deadline for receiving the first dose is 31 December. Ladhani urged eligible individuals not to delay booking an appointment until the end of the academic term or amidst holiday festivities.
Protection requires two doses administered at least 28 days apart. While the first dose deadline is approaching, the UKHSA confirmed that second doses will remain available until 31 March 2027. Current data indicates that nearly 70% of those who have received their first dose have already completed the second.
Eligibility for the programme extends to individuals born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008. It also includes anyone under the age of 25 who commenced university or residential further education for the first time in the current autumn term.
Higher Risks for University Students
The UKHSA highlighted that freshers face a risk of infection approximately seven times higher than their peers who do not attend university. Experts attribute this elevated risk to factors such as shared accommodation, large social networks, and party environments, which facilitate the spread of the bacteria.
Professor Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group, expressed deep concern over the low uptake rates. He noted that while the vaccine cannot prevent all cases, it remains highly effective. Pollard described the potential for even one preventable case as a tragedy, given the available tools to protect young people.
Dr Eliza Gil, a clinical lecturer at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, explained that the peak season for invasive MenB infection typically runs from December to March. She suggested the time-limited nature of the offer was designed to ensure immune protection is established before this high-risk period.
However, Dr Michael Head, an associate professor in global public health at the University of Southampton, argued that the risk of meningitis does not disappear on 1 January. He called for a review of whether the December deadline should be extended and advocated for routine MenB vaccination for adolescents.
Henry Gregg, chief executive of the National Pharmacy Association, stated that further promotion is necessary. He urged universities to strongly promote the campaign to students living in residential accommodation. Gregg also suggested that an annual campaign should replace the current ad-hoc approach to minimize the risk of future outbreaks.
Charities such as Meningitis Now and the National Union of Students support routine vaccination for young people. Earlier this year, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation recommended a routine single MenB booster jab for 15-year-olds who received infant vaccinations, with two doses for those who missed out.
With the December deadline imminent, health officials continue to stress the importance of timely vaccination to prevent further tragic outbreaks this winter.
Source: The Guardian
