Students urged to get MenB vaccine before university

The NHS has launched what it describes as its largest-ever MenB catch-up vaccination campaign, targeting young people most at risk of contracting the potentially deadly infection.

Health officials say the disease can spread through close contact and is a particular concern for students living with large groups of people for the first time.

Dr Yasmin Khan, Regional medical director for the NHS North East and Yorkshire, said starting university often means meeting large numbers of new people and spending more time in shared settings.

Dr Khan warned that while MenB is uncommon, it can have devastating consequences, including hearing loss, brain damage, amputations and, in some cases, death.

(Image: Martin Rickett/PA Wire)

Early uptake of the vaccine has been strong across the region.

NHS figures show 13,107 first doses were administrated across North East and Yorkshire during the first 11 days of the programme, including 4,456 doses within the North East and North Cumbria area.

The vaccine is available to people born between September 1, 2007, and August 31, 2008, as well as eligible students born on or after July 21, 2001, who are starting university or certain residential further education colleges for the first time this autumn.

Two doses, given at least 28 days apart, are needed for full protection.

The NHS says thousands of appointments have already been booked through participating pharmacies nationwide, with young people encouraged to make the vaccine part of their preparations alongside arranging accommodation, finances and travel before the start of term.

Those eligible can book through the NHS National Booking Service or contact participating pharmacies directly.