Deputy Minister urges young people to return for second vaccine dose

From this week young people will begin to receive the second dose of their potentially lifesaving Meningitis B vaccination.

In the first four weeks of the time-limited roll out, over 17,000 young people across Wales came forward for their vaccination.

Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health, Nerys Evans, visited a clinic at Maelfa, Cardiff, where she met young people receiving their second dose ahead of starting university this autumn.

The vaccine is administered as two separate doses, one month apart, and eligible young people must complete both doses to ensure best protection. The second dose can be accessed in a student's university town if needed.

The free vaccine offers protection to all young people born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, as well as those under 25 attending higher education or residential further education for the first time this autumn.

Eligibility for this programme is based on those at the greatest risk. Young people heading to university for the first time are seven times more likely to develop meningococcal disease, particularly those living in shared accommodation, with shared social and catering facilities and close mixing. The vaccination offer is also extended to students who are living in further education accommodation or halls of residence who may be mixing in similar ways.

Nerys Evans said:

“I urge every eligible young person across Wales to follow the example of those I’ve met here in Cardiff today and make sure you go back for that vital second dose.

“If you haven’t taken up the offer yet – it’s not too late. Book an appointment to get your first dose as soon as possible."

Dr Christopher Johnson, head of the Vaccine Preventable Disease Programme at Public Health Wales, said: 

“Thousands of young people across Wales have already taken up the offer of the MenB vaccine, which is a really positive start in helping protect those most at risk as they prepare to begin university or residential further education. 

“Meningococcal B disease is rare but can progress rapidly and cause serious illness, so it is vital that everyone who is eligible comes forward for their vaccination and, just as importantly, makes sure they receive their second dose. Two doses, ideally before starting their course, provides the best protection against this devastating infection.” 

Eligible 17- and 18-year-olds will receive a letter from their health board. Those under 25 starting higher education or residential further education for the first time who have not received a letter should contact their health board directly or visit the Public Health Wales website for further information.