Doctor urges anyone born between 2001 and 2008 to get NHS vaccine today

Doctor urges anyone born between 2001 and 2008 to get NHS vaccine today A new health warning has been issued to young people heading to university in the next academic year A doctor who lost his own son to meningitis has issued a powerful plea urging young people to get vaccinated before the new academic year. His warning comes as millions of students prepare to head to university or college, entering high-risk environments where large group socialising can cause the deadly bacteria to spread rapidly. Dr Steve Dayman, founder of the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research charity and the UK’s Meningitis Movement, warned that meningitis and sepsis symptoms can develop quickly and may initially look like flu or a hangover. He said recognising the signs early and getting treatment quickly can make the difference between life and death. The NHS is offering a two-dose MenB vaccination programme to specific groups of young people in England. These include those born between September 1, 2007 and August 31, 2008, as well as eligible first-time university students born on or after July 21, 2001. It protects against meningococcal group B bacteria, which can cause meningitis and septicaemia, although vaccination does not protect against every form of meningitis or every cause of sepsis. Dr Dayman, who lost his 14-month-old boy to the illness back in 1982, is encouraging eligible young people to make sure they receive both doses offered by the NHS ahead of the 2026 academic year. "Public awareness is a constant battle and I know of numerous cases where lives have been saved due to early diagnosis and prompt treatment," he said. "Carry a wallet-size symptom card, it could save a life. "Having accessible information nearby helps keep awareness visible, practical and easy to share. Contact Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research for your free dispenser or downloadable posters. "We encourage eligible young people to ensure that they receive the 2-dose vaccination being offered by the NHS ahead of the 2026 academic year. You can get this in a pharmacy that offers MenB vaccines for young people." How to get the NHS vaccine Eligible people can book their MenB vaccination through the NHS, including at participating pharmacies, with two doses given at least four weeks apart. The NHS says eligible young people should arrange their first dose as soon as possible, with the vaccination programme continuing into the 2026/27 academic year. Anyone who develops symptoms that could indicate meningitis or sepsis should seek urgent medical help rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. Meningitis symptoms to know Meningococcal disease can become serious rapidly, with symptoms sometimes appearing in different orders and not necessarily all occurring. Warning signs include a fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, confusion, drowsiness, cold hands and feet and rapid breathing. A rash that does not fade when pressed can also be a warning sign. The bacteria can spread through saliva and mucus droplets, particularly during close contact, while sharing drinks or vapes, kissing or living in shared accommodation. Teenagers and young adults can therefore face increased exposure when they move into halls, attend university or return to busy social environments.