NHS urges students getting A-level results this week to get protected before heading to university

Thousands of young people across the North East and North Cumbria have already been vaccinated against a potentially deadly form of meningitis.

Health chiefs are now urging all students receiving their A-level results this week and preparing to head to university to make sure they are protected before term begins.

More than 4,450 MenB vaccinations have been given across the North East and North Cumbria, since the programme launched on 20 July, contributing to 96,506 across England.

MenB is a rare but potentially life-threatening bacterial infection which can cause meningitis and blood poisoning and can develop very quickly.

Young people finishing Year 13 and those moving into university halls are among those at greater risk as meningococcal bacteria can spread through close contact, including sharing drinks or vapes and living in shared accommodation.

Those eligible for the free vaccine include current Year 13 students, born between September 1, 2007 and August 31, 2008, and anyone under 25 starting university or moving into halls of residence 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.

Dr Neil O'Brien, chief medical officer, NHS North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), 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 can appear suddenly and include a high temperature, severe headache, vomiting, a stiff neck, confusion and a rash that does not fade when pressed.

Around one in 10 cases can be fatal, while some people who survive can be left with life-changing disabilities including hearing loss, brain damage and amputations.

Students who have previously received the MenACWY vaccine should still get the MenB jab if eligible, as the vaccines protect against different strains of meningococcal bacteria.

Eligible Year 13 students will be contacted by the NHS through the NHS App, text, email or letter.

First-time university students aged under 25 can book their vaccination through participating community pharmacies via the NHS website