Health Officials Urge Meningitis Vaccination Amid Rising Cases

Health officials in the United Kingdom are urging children and young adults to receive vaccinations against invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) as cases have risen significantly. According to the latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), there were 378 cases of IMD reported in the 2024/25 period, an increase from 340 cases in the previous year.

The rise in cases has raised concerns, particularly since over 82% of those diagnosed were infected with the MenB strain, which has shown an increase from 301 cases in 2023/24. The UKHSA data indicates that this strain is particularly dangerous for infants and young people, accounting for 90% of cases in babies and all 65 cases in individuals aged 15 to 19. A noticeable number of cases have also been recorded among those aged 25 and over, highlighting a broader vulnerability in the population.

Vaccination Rates Decline

The uptick in IMD cases coincides with a decline in vaccination rates among infants and teenagers, which the UKHSA attributes to increasing hesitancy towards vaccinations. Ashley Dalton, the public health minister, emphasized that the rising numbers serve as a “stark reminder” of the ongoing threat posed by meningitis. Dalton urged parents and guardians to ensure that their children are current with their meningitis vaccinations.

The vaccination program includes two key vaccines: the MenB vaccine, administered to infants at eight weeks, 16 weeks, and one year, and the MenACWY vaccine, typically given to teenagers in Year 9. The latest quarterly data reveals a slight decline in the uptake of the MenB vaccine among one-year-olds, falling to 91.4%, while coverage for the MenACWY vaccine among 13 to 14-year-olds stands at 72.1%. Although this represents an increase from the previous year, it remains lower than pre-pandemic levels.

Symptoms and Risks for Young Adults

Symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia include high fever, vomiting, joint pain, mottled skin, headaches, a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and the presence of a rash. Dr. Helen Campbell, lead scientist at UKHSA, stated, “The fight against meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia continues, with MenB still causing most of the cases last year.” She stressed the importance of vigilance among parents to recognize symptoms and ensure their children receive the necessary vaccinations.

Dr. Campbell also noted the heightened risk faced by university students, highlighting the importance of receiving the MenACWY vaccine. “Teenagers should get their MenACWY in school when offered,” she advised. “If they have missed out, it is vital they get vaccinated, particularly if they are going to university or colleges where their risk of this often-devastating disease is much higher.”

Dr. Amanda Doyle, national director for primary care and community services at NHS England, echoed these concerns, stating, “Too many children and young people are still not fully vaccinated against meningitis—a debilitating disease that can strike quickly and cause life-changing health complications and be deadly if not treated promptly.” Vaccines are offered free as part of the NHS routine immunization program, and she encouraged all parents to take advantage of this opportunity.

In addition to the rise in MenB cases, the UKHSA reported an increase in MenW cases, which rose to 43 in 2024/25 from 17 cases the previous year, often linked to travel to Saudi Arabia. However, this figure remains significantly lower than the 218 cases reported in 2015/16, prior to the introduction of the MenACWY vaccine.

As health officials work to combat these rising infection rates, the call for vaccinations remains urgent. Parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor their children’s vaccination statuses and ensure they are protected against this serious health threat.