A push to protect all young New Zealanders from meningococcal disease

People aged 13-25 years are at significant risk of the disease - with the number of youth cases increasing 88 percent in 2023, compared to the year prior.

The B strain has been the most prevalent in the last 18 months - however, only those in their first year of a close-living situation can receive the vaccine for free.

Meningitis Foundation chair Gerard Rushton says it should be available for all students.

He says students are aware of the vaccine, and want it - but simply can't afford it.