One in eight college-bound teenagers in the UK have missed out on receiving a vital meningitis vaccine, according to a report by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The agency warns that many young people remain unprotected against the potentially deadly disease and urges students heading to university to ensure they are vaccinated.
The MenACWY vaccine protects against four groups of meningococcal bacteria, which reside in the throat of approximately one in 10 people without causing illness. However, these bacteria can lead to serious conditions such as meningitis and septicaemia, which can result in amputations, brain damage, and even death.
Typically, the MenACWY vaccine is offered alongside the 3-in-1 teenage booster at secondary school when students are between the ages of 13 and 15. However, the UKHSA reveals that about one in eight of those now old enough to start college or university have not received the vaccine.
In the academic year 2021-2022, 80% of pupils had been vaccinated by the end of year 10, a slight decrease from 81% the previous year and 87% in 2019/20 when the current batch of soon-to-be freshers were in year 10.
To address this issue, the UKHSA is calling on students to ensure they are up to date with all recommended vaccinations, including MenACWY, the MMR vaccine (for measles, mumps, and rubella), and the HPV vaccine (for diseases including cervical cancer).
Dr Shamez Ladhani, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, emphasizes the importance of protecting oneself against preventable diseases. With large numbers of students coming together from various locations, the risk of infection spreading easily is high. Therefore, being vaccinated against these deadly bacteria is crucial.
The UKHSA points out that the school-based immunization program, classroom attendance, and staff absences have been disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. As a result, providers in five local authorities were unable to offer all eligible children in year 9 and 10 the vaccinations they required. There has also been significant variation in coverage by region and local authority.
Claire Wright of the Meningitis Research Foundation stresses the need for young people to be aware of meningitis symptoms, including a rash that doesn’t fade under pressure, fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and a stiff neck. Some strains of meningitis can also cause vomiting and diarrhea.
In conclusion, it is essential for college-bound teenagers to ensure they are vaccinated against meningitis and other preventable diseases. With the risk of infection spreading easily among students, taking measures to protect oneself is vital. The UKHSA’s report highlights the importance of maintaining vaccination coverage and urges students to stay up to date with their immunizations.
