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All 17 and 18-year-olds in England are being invited for a vaccine against meningococcal disease, to reduce their risk of meningitis and septicaemia.

The MenACWY vaccination programme has been introduced in response to the rapid rise in cases of a highly aggressive strain of the disease, group W. The vaccine protects against four meningococcal strains, including MenW, as well as types A, C and Y.

Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at Public Health England, said: €Meningitis can be deadly and survivors are often left with severe disabilities as a result. This vaccine will save lives and prevent permanent disability.€

People aged 19-24 who are starting university are also advised to contact their GP about vaccination.