Renewed calls for all students to receive the life-saving Men ACWY vaccine, following the tragic death of a student

Signs and Symptoms - Meningitis Now

Meningitis Now has renewed calls for all students to receive the life-saving Men ACWY vaccine, following the tragic death of a student at Northumbria University.

A 19-year-old girl, whose name has not been released, contracted meningococcal (group W) meningitis two weeks ago, and sadly died from the disease just days after starting at the university.

Public Health England (PHE) who made the announcement, first notified fellow residents at the student accommodation, and have offered precautionary antibiotics for those who may have had close contact with her.

Meningitis Now, Young Ambassador Lyndon Longhorne, who is studying at the university, and lives at the same student accommodation, was among the first to be informed.

As a survivor of meningococcal disease and a passionate advocate for student awareness, the news was an all too real reminder of the risk of meningitis and the importance for students to take up the Men ACWY vaccine.

Lyndon said: “I wanted to become a Young Ambassador so that I could let others know what the symptoms are and also that the charity is there to help and support everyone affected by this horrible disease.

“This death of someone at my uni is a tragedy that could have been avoided – students across the UK should take notice of the danger of this disease and get the vaccination now!”

Responding to the news, Liz Brown, Chief Executive at Meningitis Now said: “We were deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of another young person to this disease. It is vitally important that students starting university protect themselves with the Men ACWY vaccine and know the signs and symptoms of the disease.”

Up to a quarter of students carry the bacteria that can cause meningitis compared to one in ten of the general population. Over 12 per cent of all cases occur in the 14 to 24 age group, with first year students being at particular risk. The Men ACWY vaccine was introduced following an 809% increase in Men W cases in the past five years.

Meningitis Now has reached out to the bereaved family and offered support through this incredibly difficult time. The charity is also there for anyone concerned about the risk of meningitis to students, and would encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of the disease.

For support and advice on meningitis call the Meningitis Now Helpline on 0808 80 10 388. For more information or to donate visit the website at www.MeningitisNow.org