August 23rd 2023.
As new students from all over the world gather for their studies, health leaders are warning them about the potential risk of deadly infections. According to the UK Health Security Agency, every year, some students become seriously ill, and sadly, some even pass away, from diseases that could have been prevented with routine vaccinations. The figures from the UKHSA show that in England, 13% of those who will be starting university this year have not had their MenACWY immunisation.
The MenACWY jab is designed to protect against four strains of bacteria that can cause meningitis and blood poisoning. It is usually administered to teenagers in school, but those who missed it can get a free jab from their GP until their 25th birthday. Students who are starting university are being urged to check their vaccination status and make sure they are up to date on their jabs before mixing with large groups of other students.
The UKHSA consultant epidemiologist, Dr Shamez Ladhani, said: "Every year we see new and returning students get seriously ill, with some tragically dying, from what are preventable diseases. With large numbers of students coming together from around the country and overseas for the first time, and closely mixing, infection can spread easily."
The health body is also urging students to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia which include a fever, cold hands and feet, vomiting, confusion, fast breathing, muscle and joint pain, pale, mottled or blotchy skin, spots or a rash, a headache, a stiff neck, a dislike of bright lights, being very sleepy or difficult to wake, or fits.
Claire Wright, from the Meningitis Research Foundation, said: "Meningitis can kill healthy people within hours and in the early stages is difficult to distinguish from a bad hangover or more common milder illnesses. By taking up the free MenACWY vaccine, students are not only protecting themselves but also protecting others by stopping the bacteria from being passed on. For young people who have already been vaccinated, it is still important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis, because the free vaccine does not protect against MenB which is the most common cause of life-threatening meningitis amongst this age group."
Lauren Sandell, who tragically died at the age of 18 during her first year at university in 2016 after contracting MenW, was remembered by her mother, Sharon Sandell. She said: "We totally thought it was a panic attack and not at any point did I think her life was in danger. I will always be thankful that she was at home with me when she died, but the experience of witnessing it will stay with me forever. Such a tragic, unnecessary end to a life of a beautiful girl who had so much life to live. If she had the vaccine, she would still be here today celebrating her 25th year of life. Get the MenACWY jab today."
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