Charity calls for more meningitis vaccines after teenager's death

The tragic passing of Lewis Waters, a sixth-form student at The Henley College, has highlighted the urgent need for increased meningitis vaccinations. In addition to Waters, two other students—one from Reading Blue Coat School and another from Highdown Secondary School and Sixth Form Centre—are currently receiving treatment for meningitis.

Dr. Tom Nutt, chief executive of Meningitis Now, expressed the sentiment that "young lives are really precious and we should do everything we can to protect them."

In response, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) confirmed that the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) is currently reviewing eligibility criteria for the routine administration of the Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine. Currently, the vaccine is not included in the NHS routine immunisation schedule for teenagers and young adults.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), one case has been identified as MenB, while results regarding the other two cases are pending further examination.

Dr. Nutt continued, emphasizing that the arguments against expanding the MenB vaccination program largely revolve around cost-effectiveness. He stated, "The lives of teenagers and young adults are too precious, and it is tragic to see yet another death."

He pointed to a significant decrease in disease prevalence following the introduction of the vaccine, noting, "There is about 75% less disease in the under-ones than there was before the vaccine was introduced." He also highlighted the vaccine’s safety and efficacy while acknowledging its high cost as a barrier to broader implementation.

Dr. Nutt urged the government to recognize the extensive societal, familial, and economic benefits that could arise from a more comprehensive rollout of the MenB vaccination initiative, stating, "Health is an asset that we really must protect."

The UKHSA has drawn connections between Lewis and the other affected individuals through a shared social network, and as a precaution, antibiotics are being administered to close contacts of all three individuals.

This incident follows a recent outbreak in Kent, where two individuals died from MenB, which was linked to a nightclub in Canterbury. In April, three young people were diagnosed with meningitis in Dorset. Fortunately, the UKHSA has assessed the risk posed to the general public as low.

In light of the ongoing situation, Dr. Nutt acknowledged the proactive measures taken by the UKHSA in providing timely antibiotic treatment to those affected and expressed reassurance regarding the actions that have been implemented. However, he cautioned the public to "remain alert" to the reality that this infrequent yet serious disease "can strike anyone at any time."

Annually, approximately 300 to 400 cases of meningococcal disease are diagnosed in England, primarily affecting infants, young children, teenagers, and young adults.

Meningitis symptoms

The symptoms of meningitis can emerge suddenly and may include:

• A rash that does not fade under pressure
• Sudden onset of high fever
• Severe and worsening headache
• Stiff neck
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Joint and muscle pain
• Sensitivity to bright lights
• Cold extremities
• Seizures
• Confusion or delirium
• Extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking

The UKHSA has advised young people to ensure their vaccinations are current, particularly the MenACWY vaccine offered to students in Years 9 and 10. While the vaccine remains available for free on the NHS for individuals up to the age of 25, it does not protect against all strains of meningitis. The UKHSA noted that strains such as MenB continue to circulate among young people.

A spokesperson from the DHSC stated, "We have requested an updated recommendation from the JCVI based on the latest evidence regarding Meningococcal B, particularly in light of the recent outbreak in Canterbury. The JCVI is conducting a review of eligibility for routine MenB vaccination and will provide further updates and advice to the department in due course."

The UK is recognized for having a world-leading national immunisation program, which is regularly reviewed and updated to address the evolving nature of infectious diseases and to ensure optimal protection and outcomes for the public.