The JCVI says young people who have had a MenB vaccination as infants should also have a one-off booster in four years' time when they turn fifteen.
Meningitis Now’s CEO Dr Tom Nutt said, “This is a significant moment in the fight against meningitis, as the Government’s vaccines experts have recognised the importance of protecting the lives of teenagers and young adults.”
“We have consistently called for the vaccination of this age group who remain at increased risk of MenB disease. Today's recommendation is an important step towards ensuring that far more young people are protected from this devastating disease.”
The committee also said it strongly supports a catch-up programme for young people who did not receive the MenB vaccine as babies and are too young to be eligible for the one-off vaccination programme launched this week. The cost-effectiveness of these additional programmes is uncertain, but JCVI says vaccinating these groups is highly important on the grounds of equity.
Dr Nutt added, “We are calling on the government now to put this into action. We want to see this programme implemented as soon as possible to ensure that every eligible young person can benefit from this potentially life-saving vaccine without unnecessary delay.”
“Many of those currently aged between 16 and 25 remain vulnerable to MenB, particularly as they enter higher education or live in shared accommodation where the bacteria can spread more easily.”
Meningitis Now’s “No Plan B for MenB” campaign is calling for a vaccination programme for everyone currently aged 16 to 25, ensuring that no young people miss the opportunity to be protected against the disease.
The announcement comes in the same week that a one-off MenB vaccination programme has been launched across the UK for school leavers and new university starters.
Dr Nutt added, “Behind today's recommendation are countless families whose lives have been forever changed by meningitis. Many have channelled their grief, loss and lived experience into tirelessly campaigning for change, determined that other families should never have to endure what they have been through. Today we remember all lives lost to meningitis and recognise this landmark step takes us closer to a world where no one has to experience this devastating disease.”
