Freshers are Seven Times More Likely to Contract Meningococcal Disease Than Young Adults who don’t go to University

Dr Steve Dayman

BRISTOL, AVON, UNITED KINGDOM, September 18, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- First-year students face a risk of meningococcal disease around seven times higher than young people of a

similar age who do not attend university, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data demonstrates.

The increased risk is linked to close social contact, shared accommodation and exposure to new social groups.

Meningitis B (MenB) remains the dominant strain of meningococcal disease affecting young people. It was responsible for 97% of invasive meningococcal cases in 15 to 24-year-olds (93 of 96 cases) in England during 2025 to 2026, according to UKHSA reports.

To help improve awareness of the warning signs, the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research charity has developed a free symptom card and dispenser for use in schools, universities, workplaces, GP surgeries, libraries and community settings.

Dr Steve Dayman, founder of the Spencer Dayman Meningitis Research charity and the UK’s Meningitis Movement, explains, “Meningitis and sepsis can strike quickly and symptoms can appear in any order. It is vital that parents and young people know what to look for. Symptoms can be hard to spot or may initially resemble flu or a hangover.

“Early diagnosis and treatment can mean the difference between life and death. I know of numerous cases where recognising symptoms early enabled people to receive life-saving treatment.”

Dr Dayman has spent more than 40 years driving meningitis vaccine development, research and awareness-raising. He introduced and promoted the diagnostic Tumbler Test to the public in 1991.

He encourages students, parents, lecturers, teachers and employers to carry a symptom card. It could save a life.

Young people are eligible for the NHS’s time-limited two-dose MenB vaccination this autumn. Visit Book a MenB vaccination appointment - NHS to find out more.

To support awareness campaigns, the charity is offering free symptom cards and dispensers to universities, schools, workplaces, GP surgeries and community organisations.

To receive free symptom cards and dispensers, contact:
info@spencerdaymanmeningitisresearch.org


Digital posters, cards and leaflets covering meningitis and sepsis are available at:
https://www.spencerdaymanmeningitisresearch.org/meningitis-explained/downloads/