Thousands of uni-bound students in England to be vaccinated against deadly 'freshers' flu'

A vaccination program was announced Monday to protect thousands of teenagers heading to British universities this fall against a deadly disease known as 'freshers' flu'.

From today all teenagers in England aged 17 and 18 will be contacted by family doctors and offered the vaccine against one of the most severe strains of meningitis which can cause inflammation of the brain or septicaemia blood poisoning.

Public Health England say the program will be directed at all 17 and 18 years old, but they are particularly eager to offer vaccinations to undergraduates preparing to head to their universities.

A Public health England spokesman said Monday: "It's important anyone who plans to go to university this year gets vaccinated before they leave.

"This group are at increased risk of getting meningococcal disease, as many of them will be mixing closely with lots of new people at university, some of whom may unknowingly carry the meningococcal bacteria."

The program is a response to a rapidly growing increase in cases of a highly aggressive strain of the disease, with 117 cases last year compared to just 22 in 2009.

Dr Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunisation at PHE said: "Meningitis can be deadly and survivors are often left with severe disabilities as a result of this terrible disease. This vaccine will save lives and prevent permanent disability."

Sue Davie, Chief Executive of Meningitis Now, said: "It is critical young people are not complacent about the disease. This is a cruel disease, it does not discriminate and could significantly alter the future outlook for young people if they are not protected or meningitis aware."

Chris Head, Chief Executive of the Meningitis Research Foundation, said: "The rise in MenW ST-11 strain of the disease is particularly worrying as it causes more severe illness and a higher death rate than other strains."

Public health England cited the case of Amy Davis from Surrey who contracted bacterial meningitis at the age of 18. She said: "I'm reminded every day of the moment I contracted meningitis. In August 2012, after a year and a half of trying to save my leg, there was no choice but to have it amputated. I look at other girls my age and feel so envious when they can go dress and shoe shopping, it makes me so frustrated."

Cindy Sitambuli's brother Saleem was not so lucky when he contracted meningitis at university.

Sister Cindy said: "Saleem had been out with his girlfriend and the next day thought he had a hangover. His girlfriend and flat mate found him dead in his bed later on the Sunday. I wouldn't wish what our family have experienced on anyone. I will be making sure my son, Saleem's nephew who is now 18 years old, is vaccinated." Endit