Young people across Gwent are being encouraged to take up a new, time‑limited vaccination offer to help protect them against meningococcal group B (MenB) disease – a rare but serious infection that can lead to life‑threatening meningitis and sepsis.
The Welsh Government announced the targeted MenB programme in June, with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board now rolling out appointments across the region. The offer is aimed at young people preparing for big life changes such as moving into shared accommodation for university or college, where mixing with new social groups increases the risk of infection.
MenB vaccine
Prof Tracy Daszkiewicz, Executive Director of Public Health and Strategic Partnerships for Gwent, said: “Vaccination is one of the simplest and most effective things we can do to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our communities from serious infectious diseases. While MenB disease is rare, it can develop very quickly and have devastating consequences, which is why it is so important that eligible young people take up this offer of vaccination.
“As young people prepare for university, college or other new experiences, they will be meeting new people and spending more time in shared settings. Getting vaccinated not only helps protect them from potentially life-threatening illness, but also plays an important role in building healthier, safer communities for everyone. I would encourage all those who are eligible to take up this opportunity and give themselves the best possible protection.”
Anyone born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 should already have received an invite. If not, they can contact the booking centre on 0300 303 1373. The vaccine is also available to under‑25s attending higher or residential further education for the first time.
Appointments can be booked by phone or via the self‑referral form on the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board website. Eligible individuals may also be offered routine vaccinations they’ve missed.
For more details, visit the Health Board’s MenB information page or the FAQs on the Public Health Wales website.