University students face a MenB risk seven times higher than young people who don’t go to university, the NHS is warning, as freshers weeks begin across London and thousands more students prepare to start term in the coming weeks.
London, home to the highest concentration of students in the country, is a potential hotspot for the disease, which spreads through kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, and the close contact of packed halls and parties. MenB can kill within hours and can leave survivors with life-changing disabilities, including amputations, hearing loss and brain damage.
Health chiefs are urging all eligible students, including the tens of thousands arriving in London from overseas, to get vaccinated as a priority alongside registering with a GP and setting up a student bank account. Since the catch-up campaign began on 20th July, over 31,000 first doses have already been given.
Karen Bonner, Chief Nurse for the NHS in London, said: “Freshers week is one of the most exciting times in a young person’s life, full of new friendships, new experiences and a new sense of independence. Alongside sorting accommodation, finances and getting to know a new city, we’re encouraging eligible students, whether they’ve come from London, across the UK, or around the world, to think about their health too.
“Following the meningitis outbreaks earlier this year and the tragic loss of lives, it’s hugely encouraging that so many young people have already had their first MenB vaccine. But I can’t stress enough how vital it is to get a second dose, only then will you have strong protection against this devastating disease.”
For students arriving from overseas, MenB vaccination isn’t routinely offered in many countries, and may be unfamiliar. Health chiefs are encouraging international students to check their eligibility and book an appointment as part of settling into life in London.
Kevin Fenton, Regional Director of Public Health for London, added: “Every year, thousands of young people from London, across the UK and around the world prepare to start university and begin an exciting new chapter in their lives. As they look ahead to new experiences, greater independence and the opportunity to build new friendships, we want them to feel informed, supported and confident in looking after their health.
“Some students may be unfamiliar with MenB vaccination or may not have previously been offered it, which is why we’re encouraging all eligible students to check whether they’re protected before the new term gets underway. Getting vaccinated is a simple step that can help students focus on making the most of university life, pursuing their studies and enjoying everything that London and their student experience have to offer.”
Seventeen and 18-year-olds can book through the NHS National Booking Service. Other eligible students, including international students, should contact a participating pharmacy directly
Elena Tacu, pharmacist at Green Lanes Pharmacy in Enfield, one of many community pharmacies offering the vaccine across the capital, said: “As students settle into university life, whether they’ve just arrived from overseas or moved from elsewhere in the UK, making sure vaccinations are up-to-date forms part of that settling-in process. University is an exciting new chapter, but it also means meeting lots of new people and often living in close quarters.
“As a pharmacist, I encourage all students, wherever they’ve come from, to prioritise their health and get vaccinated against MenB. Community pharmacies are ready to support students with their vaccination needs, including providing the MenB vaccination and answering any questions they may have.”
The MenB vaccination is available to:
People born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
People born on or after 21 July 2001 starting university for the first time this autumn, including international students
People born on or after 21 July 2001 starting some residential further education colleges for the first time this autumn
Two doses are needed, given at least 28 days apart, for full protection. Anyone who misses vaccination before starting university can still get a first dose before 31 December, with second doses available until 31 March 2027 at participating pharmacies across London.
