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Children and young adults are urged to receive vaccination against infections The cause is Meningitis and blood poisoning in between “Extremely worrying” increase in cases.
meningitis is an infection The protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can affect anyone, but it is most common in infants, young children, teenagers, and young adults. If not treated immediately, it can be fatal sepsis And result in permanent damage to the brain or nerves.
The latest UK Health Protection Agency (UKHSA) figures show there were 378 cases of the serious bacterial infection invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in 2024-25. This is up from 340 in the last 12 months.
Dr Tom Nutt, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now, Said: “These figures are extremely worrying. Meningitis can affect anyone at any time, but its increase in teenagers, young adults and infants – some of the most vulnerable groups – shows how important it is to remain vigilant.
“Early detection saves lives, but prevention through vaccines is the most effective way to prevent this devastating disease.”
Meningitis symptoms and sepsis These include high temperature, vomiting, muscle and joint pain, blotchy skin, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and rash.
More than 82 per cent of cases last year – about 313 – were caused by MenB, up from 301 in 2023-24.
The majority were children and young people, with this strain accounting for 90 percent of cases in infants and all 65 cases in patients aged 15 to 19 years, with the highest proportion of cases in patients aged 25 and older.
The UKHSA said it comes amid a decline in infant and teen vaccination rates, leaving young people more vulnerable to the disease.
Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton said the number of cases was a stark reminder that meningitis remains a serious threat to children and young adults.
She added: “I urge all parents and guardians to ensure their children receive meningitis vaccination as well as those eligible.”
Dr Helen Campbell, UKHSA chief scientist, said: “The fight against meningococcal meningitis and septicemia continues, with MenB still causing the majority of cases last year.
“It is therefore important that parents remain alert to the symptoms and ensure their children are protected with infant MenB vaccination.”
Dr Campbell also highlighted the high risk of infection among university students, adding: “Teenagers should be provided with their MenACWY at school.
“If they have missed it, it is important that they get vaccinated, especially if they are attending university or colleges where the risk of this often devastating disease is very high.
“Especially for students, it is important to know the key symptoms and keep a close eye on friends who suddenly fall ill and if concerned, seek medical help immediately.”
Dr Amanda Doyle, national director of primary care and community services at NHS England, said: “Too many children and young people are still not fully vaccinated against meningitis – a debilitating disease that can attack rapidly and cause life-changing health complications and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
“Vaccines to prevent this are given for free as part of the NHS routine vaccination programme, and I would urge all parents to take up the offer of a vaccine for their children or arrange an appointment with your GP practice if your child has missed it.”