Young people across Lincolnshire receiving their A-Level results this month are being urged to protect themselves against meningitis and septicaemia by taking up a free NHS meningococcal B (MenB) vaccination.
NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) is encouraging eligible students to book their vaccinations as soon as possible before starting university or residential further education this autumn.
MenB disease is rare but can be extremely serious. It can cause meningitis, septicaemia (blood poisoning) and sepsis, and can become life-threatening within hours. Young people living and socialising closely with lots of new people, such as those moving into halls of residence, are at increased risk.
Who can get the MenB vaccine?
The NHS is offering the vaccine to:
- All current Year 13 students born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008.
- People aged under 25 who are starting university for the first time this autumn.
- People aged under 25 who are starting residential further education for the first time this autumn.
Advice for students and parents
“A-Level results day is an exciting milestone, with many young people preparing to move away from home and begin a new chapter in their lives,” comments Steph Hart, Assistant Locality Lead – Vaccination Programme, NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board.
“It’s also an important opportunity to think about their health. The MenB vaccine offers protection against a potentially devastating infection that can spread through close contact and shared living spaces.
“We’d encourage all eligible young people, whether they’re heading to university, moving into residential further education or simply leaving school this summer, to check if they’re eligible and book their vaccination as soon as possible.
“It’s also worth checking you are up to date with your other routine vaccinations, such as Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and Meningitis ACWY (MenACWY). You can check your vaccination record on the NHS App or by contacting your GP practice.”
The MenB vaccination programme began in July and eligible young people will need two doses, given at least four weeks apart, for the best protection.
In Lincolnshire, the programme is being delivered through participating community pharmacies, with appointments available to book through the NHS.
Find out more and book your appointment
For more information about eligibility and how to book, visit the NHS website Find a pharmacy that offers MenB vaccinations for young people – NHS or the ICB’s “Grab a Jab” website Meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine – Lincolnshire ICB