Meningitis B is a serious infection that affects the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can affect anyone, but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults. The UK has seen a significant number of meningitis B cases this year, prompting health officials to roll out a vaccination programme to protect those at highest risk.
What Happened
The two-dose vaccine will be available to pupils in their final year of secondary school, and 18- to 25-year-olds heading to university or residential further education for the first time in autumn. The programme aims to protect one million young people against meningitis B, which can lead to life-threatening illness.
Why It Matters
Meningitis B can be very serious if not treated quickly. The cause of the infection - either certain bacteria or viruses - can be determined by tests. Bacterial meningitis is rarer but more serious than viral meningitis. The UK's largest and fastest-growing meningitis B outbreak to date occurred in Kent this year, with two further "unusual" clusters in Weymouth in Dorset and Reading in Berkshire.
Key Facts
- Who: One million students in the UK
- What: Meningitis B vaccination programme
- Impact: Protects against life-threatening meningitis B infection
Symptoms and Spread
Meningitis can be spread through close contact with an infected person, such as kissing, coughing, or sharing food and drink. Symptoms can include fever, vomiting, headache, and stiff neck. If not treated promptly, meningitis can lead to serious complications, including brain damage, hearing loss, and even death.
What Experts Say
"Meningococcal disease can lead to life-threatening illness, and this programme will help protect those at highest immediate risk." — UK health officials
Key Numbers
- 1 million: Number of students to receive MenB vaccine
- 18-25: Age range of students eligible for vaccination
- 2015: Year when babies were first offered MenB vaccine
Background
Meningitis B vaccination has been available for babies since 2015. However, teenagers and young adults have not been routinely vaccinated against the disease. The current outbreak has prompted health officials to reassess the risk and offer the vaccine to those at highest risk.
What Comes Next
The vaccination programme will be closely monitored, and health officials will review the decision to offer the vaccine to all teenagers and young adults. In the meantime, students are advised to take up the offer of vaccination to protect themselves against meningitis B.