Meningitis B is a severe and life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily affects young people. Recent statistics from Meningitis Research Foundation show that about one in ten people who contract bacterial meningitis will die, and many more will suffer from long-term after-effects such as brain damage, epilepsy, and limb loss.

In the UK, young people in 6th Form and University are at an increased risk due to close living environments such as shared accommodation and social activities where the infection can easily spread. Despite the risks, the current NHS immunisation programme offers the Men B vaccine primarily to babies and young children.

We believe this leaves a significant age gap unprotected against this dangerous disease. Offering the Men B vaccine to all students in 6th Form and University would provide an essential layer of protection, ensuring the health and safety of our youth and reducing the risk of outbreaks in educational institutions.

Implementing this initiative requires government commitment to include Men B inoculation in the free NHS vaccination programme, extended to encompass students of this vulnerable age group. This solution is not only feasible but essential, given the high-risk nature of their environments.

We call upon the UK Government and public health authorities to expand access to the Men B vaccine immediately to protect our younger populations. Your signature can make a difference and help us urge policymakers to take immediate action. Please sign and share this petition to show your support for the health and safety of our students.

Please help us to ensure that no more families have to go through the heartbreak of losing their young person to a disease that is preventable.