Health bosses are urging A Level students in the North East who are heading to university to get vaccinated against meningitis B, a "potentially deadly" form of the disease that could become more common by Freshers' Week.
A campaign to ensure young people are protected against meningitis B was launched on July 20. In less than three weeks, 4,450 vaccines have been given across the North East and North Cumbria.
Eligibility and free jabs
Current year 13 students - those born between September 1 2007 and August 31 2008 - are eligible for a free jab, as are anyone under 25 heading to university or student halls for the first time this autumn.
Health leaders say anyone eligible should come forward as soon as possible because two doses of the vaccine are needed, four weeks apart.
Health warning
Dr Neil O'Brien, the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB)'s chief medical officer, said: "It's really encouraging that so many young people across our region have already come forward to protect themselves against MenB. For those preparing to start university, there is a lot to think about over the summer, but getting vaccinated should be high on the list.
"Living and socialising closely with lots of new people creates more opportunities for meningococcal bacteria to spread. MenB is thankfully uncommon, but it can become life-threatening very quickly. With two doses needed four weeks apart, we'd urge anyone who is eligible not to put it off – get your first dose now so you can start university with the best possible protection."
Symptoms and recent outbreaks
Around 1 in 10 cases of the illness can be fatal, while it can also cause life-changing complications. Symptoms can include a high temperature, severe headache, vomiting, a stiff neck, confusion and a rash that does not fade when pressed.
The campaign follows a year with lethal outbreaks around the country. Two teenagers died in Kent in March in a widely-publicised outbreak that affected school and university students.
Those in year 13 who are eligible will be contacted by the NHS, while other first-time students under 25 should book vaccinations via the NHS website.
