Young people in Hull are being encouraged to take up a new, time-limited NHS vaccination offer to help protect against meningococcal B disease, which can cause meningitis and septicaemia.
Vaccinations are available now for specific groups, ahead of new university and higher education terms starting in early autumn.
The MenB vaccination offer is aimed at young people who may be at increased risk as they prepare to move into university, higher education or further education accommodation for the first time.
The offer applies to:
- young people born between September 1 2007 and August 31 2008
- young people aged under 25 who will be attending undergraduate higher education for the first time in autumn 2026
- young people aged under 25 who will be living in eligible further education accommodation or halls of residence for the first time in autumn 2026.
Year 13-aged young people are expected to receive an invite from the NHS to pre-book an appointment. Other eligible young people will be able to access vaccination through participating community pharmacies.
The MenB vaccine requires two doses for the best protection. The first dose is being offered from Monday July 20, with the second dose available from August. It takes around two weeks after the second dose for the body to build a good level of protection, so it is important to have the initial dose as soon as possible.
Meningococcal B, known as MenB, can cause serious illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia. Although rare, meningococcal disease can develop quickly and can be life-threatening.
Ali Patey, Director of Public Health for Hull City Council, said: “We welcome this important vaccination offer and strongly encourage eligible young people to take it up.
“Starting university, higher education or living away from home for the first time is an exciting step, but it also means mixing closely with lots of new people. This can increase the risk of some infections spreading, including meningococcal disease.
“MenB disease is rare, but it can be very serious and can develop quickly. Having both doses of the vaccine gives eligible young people important individual protection before or early in the new academic year.
“If you are eligible, please look out for your NHS invitation or use the official NHS booking information to find a participating pharmacy. Parents, carers, schools, colleges and universities can also help by encouraging eligible young people to come forward.
“It is also important to remember that no vaccine prevents every case of meningitis or septicaemia. Young people, parents and carers should remain aware of the signs and symptoms and seek urgent medical help if they are concerned”.
Symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia can include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, cold hands and feet, limb pain, rapid breathing, and a rash that does not fade under pressure. Symptoms can appear in any order, and not everyone develops a rash.
Eligible young people can find further information and booking details through the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-a-menb-vaccination-appointment/