The NHS has issued a reminder to millions of young people born between 2001 and 2008 to check if they need protection against a wave of serious illnesses. The health service is offering advice on how to get the best protection as people aged between 17 and 25 could be entering the second-highest risk window for contracting these diseases.
NHS Social Media Reminder
Posting on social media, the NHS said: "If you're eligible, you can now get your free MenB vaccine. MenB can cause serious illnesses like meningitis and septicaemia. You'll need two doses, given at least four weeks apart, for the best protection. Search 'NHS MenB vaccine' to check if you're eligible and learn how to book."
What is the MenB Vaccine and Who is Eligible?
The MenB vaccine helps protect children against bacterial infections caused by meningococcal group B bacteria (MenB). These infections can cause serious illnesses, including meningitis (an infection in the brain and spinal cord), septicaemia (blood poisoning), and sepsis (a life-threatening reaction to an infection). The vaccine is also offered separately to help stop the spread of gonorrhoea, and that version is not age-restricted.
Children are offered three doses of the MenB vaccine as part of the NHS vaccination schedule before their first birthday. However, by adulthood, the initial protection fades. The NHS website states that the MenB vaccine is offered to young people who are: aged 17 to 18 (born between September 1, 2007, and August 31, 2008), or under 25 and starting university or moving into residential further education for the first time (born on or after July 21, 2001).
People in this age range are offered the vaccine because they are entering the second-highest risk window of their lives for contracting bacterial meningitis, according to the University of Reading. To get the free vaccination, individuals can find a pharmacy that offers MenB vaccination for young people.
Side Effects of the MenB Vaccine
Like all medicines, the MenB vaccine can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them. According to the NHS, common complaints after receiving the vaccine include swelling or pain where the injection was given, a high temperature, feeling tired or irritable, loss of appetite, and diarrhoea. These side effects usually improve within a few days. More serious side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction, are very rare, and the person administering the vaccine is trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately.
