A steep rise in the number of cases of a deadly strain of meningitis has prompted health officials to encourage school leavers to ensure they are vaccinated.
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Cases of meningitis and septicaemia due to Men W have been increasing in England, from 22 cases in 2009 to 117 in 2014.
Health experts are urging school leavers, particularly those preparing to go to university or college, to get themselves vaccinated to protect themselves against MenW.
Young people going to university are at particular risk because they mix with so many new people, some of whom may be carrying the meningococcal bacteria that cause meningitis W and septicaemia or blood poisoning.
It protects against the strains of meningitis most frequently associated with death and disability, and could prevent students from the horrific side-effects of the disease.
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“In England we’ve seen an upsurge in this strain and we know one young person has lost a leg to septicaemia which was contracted as a result of meningitis W”, she added. “Get vaccinated as soon as possible, remain vigilant and seek urgent medical help if you have concerns for yourself or friends”.
Public Health England (PHE) said cases of meningitis W, which can cause life-changing disabilities and kills one in 10 who contract it, were on the rise.
Global Positioning System in England and Wales will be contacting the following groups to encourage them to get the jab at their surgery as soon as possible.
Figures show a quarter of students carry the bacteria which can cause meningitis compared to one in 10 of the general population.
The injection – known as the Men ACWY vaccine – was first introduced for new university students in the United Kingdom past year.
With early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment, most people with meningococcal disease make a full recovery.
All meningococcal infections can cause meningitis and septicaemia, but MenW can also cause other illnesses, such as pneumonia and joint infections (septic arthritis).
Students going to university or college for the first time, including overseas and mature students up to the age of 25, should also contact their GP to have the Men ACWY vaccine, ideally before the start, or in the first few weeks, of the academic year.
“It’s also vital to watch out for your friends if they’re unwell”. If they have meningitis it can be like a very bad hangover that quickly gets worse.
Men W infections are particularly severe and usually need to be treated in intensive care.
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The disease can develop suddenly and progress rapidly. Students are being alerted to the signs and symptoms and have been told not to wait for a rash to develop before seeking medical attention.
