UK school leavers and new students to be offered meningitis B vaccine
Summary
The UK government will offer a new two-dose vaccine against meningitis B to teenagers in their final school year and young people starting university. This program begins in late July after a recent meningitis B outbreak that caused several deaths. The vaccine protects against most strains of meningitis B and is expected to provide at least six years of protection.Key Facts
- The vaccine, called Bexsero, is given as two doses at least 28 days apart.
- It will be offered to UK young people born between September 1, 2007, and August 31, 2008, and those under 25 starting university or certain residential education for the first time.
- Recent meningitis B outbreaks occurred in Kent, Dorset, and Berkshire, causing three deaths.
- The vaccine protects against most forms of meningitis B bacteria, which can cause serious infections like meningitis and blood poisoning.
- The vaccination campaign is an emergency response, not part of the routine immunization program.
- Eligible individuals will be contacted through the NHS app, text, or email and can book appointments with pharmacies.
- Meningitis B is more risky for young adults, especially those in university, due to close living conditions and social activities.
- The vaccine has been part of the routine baby immunization program since 2015 but not routinely given to older children or young adults until now.
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