This story was first published in digitalhealth.net
‘Worryingly low’ meningitis jab uptake
Nurses have warned that 17 and 18-year-olds who do not take up the offer to be vaccinated against meningitis are putting themselves at unnecessary risk.
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) claims that only a third of 17 and 18-year-olds, who are eligible for the free jab, took up the offer last year.
The MenACWY jab protects against four strains of meningococcal disease which cause meningitis and septicaemia - strains A, C, W and Y. Cases of strain W, considered one of the most life-threatening forms of the disease, have increased rapidly across England, with officials claiming the figure has grown from 22 cases in 2009-10 to 210 in 2015-16.
Helen Donovan, from the RCN, said: "Meningitis can be fatal, and can leave those who survive with life-changing disabilities. Vaccination is quick, easy and free, and offers protection against most strains of the disease, but reaching young people is not easy.
"Many will have been away over the summer travelling or working before university. But the risk is real and getting vaccinated saves lives. We are urging people to contact their surgeries now and book an appointment with the practice nurse."
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