Aaron Mills' death highlights MenB meningitis vaccine gap in the UK

Aaron Mills, an 18‑year‑old student at Liverpool John Moores University, died on 3 January after a rapid decline following a headache and seizure. He was diagnosed with meningococcal group B (MenB) meningitis, a serious bacterial infection that can be life‑threatening, especially in shared living settings like university halls. Mills' parents questioned why he had not received the MenB vaccine, noting that while he had been given the routine MenACWY school jab, the MenB vaccine is not part of the standard UK immunisation schedule for young people.

The family described Mills as a devoted Liverpool FC fan and a promising football‑science student. His funeral drew about 300 mourners wearing Liverpool shirts, and his local club, Kidderminster Harriers, paid tribute with a standing ovation. The case has sparked renewed debate over expanding MenB vaccination coverage in the United Kingdom.