The call comes from NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), as they encourage local young people to be best protected at this new and exciting time in their lives.

Invasive Meningococcal group B (MenB) Disease is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis, blood poisoning (septicaemia) and sepsis. Symptoms can develop rapidly and the disease can be life-threatening.

Young people under 25 who are starting university for the first time this autumn are among those eligible for the free NHS vaccine as part of a time-limited programme introduced this summer.

The MenB vaccine has an established safety record and is already offered routinely to infants through the NHS childhood vaccination programme. Evidence from the UK infant vaccination programme shows that vaccination has led to around a 75% reduction in MenB disease among eligible vaccinated groups.

To receive the best protection before arriving on campus, eligible students need two doses of the MenB vaccine at least 28 days apart, with the second dose given at least two weeks before they leave for university.

Getting vaccinated is quick and easy. For those who are born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, appointments can be booked through the NHS National Booking Service. Vaccinations are available at participating community pharmacies across the area for other age groups who are starting university this year.

Many pharmacies offer appointments outside school and college hours, making it easy for students and parents to fit vaccination into their summer plans. Participating pharmacies can be found on the NHS website.

With many freshers’ weeks beginning in just over a month’s time, NHS leaders are encouraging students to book without delay.

Vanessa Whatley, Chief Nursing Officer for the clustered ICBs, said:

“For many young people, starting university is an exciting new chapter. It also brings new environments, new friendships and often shared accommodation, all of which can increase the risk of infections spreading.

“Invasive MenB disease is uncommon, but it can become very serious very quickly. The good news is that vaccination offers protection.

“Because two doses are needed, given at least 28 days apart, time is running short for students who want maximum protection before they head off to university in September.

“If you or someone in your family is getting ready to start university for the first time this autumn, arrange these important vaccinations as soon as possible.”

Rosie Radford, Shropshire Council’s deputy portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said:

“Leaving school and taking the next step into work, further education, apprenticeships or university is an exciting time.

Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself and others. I strongly encourage all eligible pupils to take up the MenB vaccine and ensure they receive both doses for the best possible protection.”

MenB bacteria can spread through close and prolonged contact, including living in shared accommodation, kissing and sharing drinks, food or vaping devices. Students living and socialising closely together are at increased risk of exposure.

The MenB vaccine is different to the MenACWY vaccine routinely offered to teenagers and young people, and students are encouraged to ensure they are up to date with all recommended vaccinations before starting university. This can be done by contacting their GP practice, or through the NHS App.

Further information about eligibility and how to access the vaccine is available at https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-a-menb-vaccination-appointment/.

More information is available in this UK Health Security Agency digital leaflet.