Parents are being urged to ensure Wigan students are vaccinated against MenB before university

Wigan parents and carers are being urged to ensure their children are vaccinated against meningococcal B after a rise in cases.

NHS Greater Manchester says more than 45,000 young people across Greater Manchester will be offered the two-dose MenB jab.

A one-off national vaccination programme is taking place before students start university, where close contact in halls of residence and at social events can increase the risk of contracting MenB. 

Dr Claire Lake, deputy chief clinical officer, said: “Meningococcal B disease is a rare but very serious infection which is fatal in up to 10 per cent of cases and can cause life-long injury.

“While outbreaks are uncommon, recent outbreaks show that when they do occur, they can be devastating.

“The risk is higher amongst young people starting university where close and prolonged contact with lots of new people increases the chances of being exposed to the meningococcal bacteria.

“Vaccination remains our best defence against becoming seriously unwell from meningitis. That’s why we are urging parents and carers to ensure their eligible young people book appointments for their MenB vaccines as soon as possible and to get both doses to ensure maximum protection.

“Whilst vaccination prevents many infections, it is also important that young people and their families continue to be aware of symptoms of meningitis – seeking urgent medical help if they are concerned.

“And remember, by getting two doses you’re not only protecting yourself from MenB, you’re also saving the lives of your friends and everyone around you.”

MenB is serious and can result in life-changing disabilities such as amputations, hearing loss, brain damage and even death. 

The viruses and bacteria that cause it can spread through close contact, including by kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or simply being in close contact such as living in the same home.

Symptoms appear suddenly and include: a high temperature (fever), very cold hands and feet, a stiff neck, joint and muscle pain, severe headache that is getting worse, eye pain when looking at bright lights, seizures, sickness and diarrhoea, confusion, being very sleepy or difficult to wake, and spots or a rash that doesn’t fade when pressed with a glass.

There were 313 confirmed cases of MenB in England during 2024 to 2025, largely affecting young adults and teenagers, as well as infants, who are already offered the vaccine.

Evidence from the UK infant vaccination programme shows it has led to around a 75 per cent reduction in MenB among eligible groups.  

This vaccination programme will make jabs available to:

• Year 13 school leavers born between September 1, 2007 and August 31, 2008 regardless of what they intend to do after leaving college/education
• New undergraduates under 25 who are starting higher education for the first time (including new international students in England)
• New further education students under 25, who will live in halls or accommodation for the first time

The vaccines can be booked via the online national booking system, walk-in clinics and pop-up clinics.

To find out more, visit Find a pharmacy that offers MenB vaccinations for young people - NHS and book an appointment at Book a MenB vaccination appointment - NHS

If you think you or a loved one has meningitis get medical help and call 999. Do not drive yourself to A&E.