The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned 580,000 eligible Brits that time is running out to get their first dose of a free vaccine, with a deadline of December 31.
In an alert on Thursday, November 12, the agency urged eligible 18 and 19-year-olds, as well as first-year university students, to come forward for their first dose of the free MenB vaccine. The warning follows several outbreaks of Meningitis B this year in England, which have led to three deaths.
Low uptake concerns
The UKHSA said it is concerned over the low numbers taking up the vaccine. The free dose programme is open to all 18 and 19-year-olds born between September 1, 2007 and August 31, 2008, and to those under 25 who started university or residential further education until December 31.
Latest health data shows that 28.2% of eligible Brits have taken up the first dose, while 68.8% of these have also had a second dose. This means roughly 7 in 10 who have started their vaccine course have completed it.
Two doses essential
Two doses are essential for protection, with the doses needing to be given at least 28 days apart. The first dose offer will cease at the end of this year, but for those getting their first dose in time, a second dose will be available until March 31.
The UKHSA said: "Data show that young people starting at university are at increased risk of meningococcal disease due to social mixing patterns and other risk factors – with the risk for students in their first year of university around 7 times higher than young people of a similar age who do not go to university."
Officials urge action
Dr Shamez Ladhani, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "Worryingly only just over a quarter of 18 and 19 year olds have had their first dose of the MenB vaccine and time is running out to get both doses and protect yourself from this devastating disease.
"The deadline for getting your first dose is 31 December, so please don’t leave it until the end of term or forget it amongst all the Christmas and other holiday festivities. Parties and gatherings inevitably lead to increased mixing with others which raises the risk of meningococcal disease spreading among young people. Book your appointment now.
We know the vaccine can cause some a sore arm for a few days but compared to the potential devastating, life changing consequences of infection, it’s just not worth the risk of missing out."
Dame Diana Johnson, Minister of State for Public Health and Patient Safety, added: "It is great that so many young people have received their MenB jab and I pay tribute to all the NHS staff and pharmacies up and down the country who have made this programme possible.
"But many of the young people who are eligible for this jab have still not taken it up, and they are currently missing out on the chance to protect themselves against this terrible disease.
"So I encourage everyone who hasn’t yet had the jab to come forward, make sure you get both doses, and ensure you are properly protected this Christmas."
