Government Accused of 'Playing Russian Roulette' with Youth Lives Over Meningitis B Vaccine
Campaigners have issued a stark warning that the government is "playing Russian roulette" with the lives of young people by failing to offer the meningitis B vaccine to all youth, not just those born after 2015. This comes as an "explosive" outbreak of the deadly virus grips Kent, with cases now linked to two universities, at least five schools, and a nightclub.
Outbreak Spreads as University Takes Action
The University of Kent is set to offer the vaccine to the 5,000 students living in halls of residence at its Canterbury campus, following a surge in infections that has grown to 20 cases and claimed two lives. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has described the illness as "severe with rapid deterioration," prompting health officials to issue alerts for NHS staff to be vigilant for symptoms in people aged 16 to 30.
Personal Tragedy Fuels Campaign for Change
Marissa Mullans, 46, from Prestwich, who lost her 18-year-old son Alfie to meningitis B in June 2023, is leading the charge for a policy rethink. She recalls the "horrendous nightmare" of his rapid decline, noting that he came home from college feeling lethargic, lost his appetite, and complained of a headache. It was only when a rash appeared the next morning that meningitis was suspected, but by then, it was too late—Alfie died just a day after symptoms began.
"It was only after Alfie's passing that we realised he hadn't had the meningitis B vaccination," Mrs Mullans told The Independent, explaining that while he had all NHS-offered vaccinations, menB was not included. Since 2015, the vaccine has been part of routine childhood immunisations for babies, leaving many schoolchildren and university students unprotected.
Frustration Over Cost-Effectiveness Claims
After her son's death, Mrs Mullans launched a petition calling for all 16 to 23-year-olds to be offered the vaccine on the NHS. However, she claims the government response cited cost-effectiveness concerns. "When did we become a society that puts cost effectiveness above the safety of young people?" she questioned, adding that without action, many young people will remain unvaccinated until 2031.
Health Secretary Urges Caution Amid Calls for Action
Health Secretary Wes Streeting has asked the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) to re-examine eligibility for meningitis vaccines for a wider group in light of the current cases. He acknowledged the unprecedented pace and spread of the virus but insisted he would not have a "knee-jerk reaction" to rolling out jabs more widely.
Survivor Backs Vaccine Rollout and Education
Vicky Purdey, 37, from Wimborne, who survived viral meningitis in March 2024, is also advocating for a wider vaccine rollout. She believes "you can't put a price on life" and urges the government to offer the vaccine to all young people while improving education on symptoms in schools. Her recovery left her housebound for a year, with lost sensation in her legs and reliance on a wheelchair.
"I don't want anyone else to go through the same thing as I have," Mrs Purdey said. "I think a vaccine gives that barrier of protection to vulnerable people. I just don’t understand why if there is the option to save lives, why the government wouldn’t do that."
Pharmacy Shortages and Charity Calls
Pharmacies in Kent are scrambling for private supplies of the menB vaccine, which costs £220 for two doses at retailers like Boots and Superdrug, but demand has left them with low stock. The charity Meningitis Now is calling for the vaccine to be made available at a "fair price" on the high street and included in the NHS vaccination programme for young people.
UKHSA Issues Urgent Alert
The UKHSA has reiterated its alert, urging NHS staff to wear masks and PPE and maintain a "high index of suspicion" for meningitis in young adults, warning not to wait for a rash to appear. The Department of Health and Social Care has been contacted for comment as the outbreak continues to unfold.
