A KIDDERMINSTER dad who has tirelessly campaigned for greater awareness of Meningitis B after losing his teenage son has ‘found some peace’ after the government announced a major vaccine rollout.
Anthony Mills lost his son, Aaron, aged 18, who died at the start of the year, just days after beginning to feel run down.
As Aaron had already been vaccinated for meningitis, his parents believed he was protected, but he had caught a different strain, Meningitis B, which his vaccine did not help him with.
Following Aaron’s tragic death, Anthony and the rest of his family have been campaigning for a MenB vaccine rollout and greater awareness, and met with Sharon Hodgson, Undersecretary to the Health Secretary, on May 21.
This week, Anthony’s campaign bore fruit as the government announced that thousands of young people across England will get protection against MenB through a one-off vaccination programme launching ahead of the 2026 academic year.
Eligible students will be offered a two-dose vaccination before they start university, where close and prolonged contact in halls and at social events can increase the risk of contracting MenB disease.
Sharon Hodgson wrote to Anthony the day before the decision was announced.
Anthony told the Standard: “Sharon had a big influence on the decision, and I’m sure my meeting with her had an impact.
“I took a photo of Aaron and told her his story.
“She was extremely emotional and understood my loss. Of course, I am thrilled at the decision, as that is what we have campaigned for, but my instant response is to think of Aaron, and it hurts to know this has all come a year too late for us.
“I just hope it is the start of a full programme to get everybody protected.
“Aaron had an indomitable spirit to do the right thing; it’s good to know the government is doing the right thing.
“It adds to Aaron’s legacy. I have found some peace with this.
“I would like to thank Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier for helping me push for change.”
All people within the year 13 date of birth range will receive the vaccine offer irrespective of their education plans and will be contacted directly through the NHS App, text, email or letter.
