From Monday 20 July, students heading to university this autumn are being urged by the NHS to book a potentially lifesaving MenB vaccine appointment.
Appointments to get the jab can now be booked at participating high street pharmacies. The vaccine offers vital protection for 17 and 18-year-olds currently in the last year of sixth form and students under the age of 25 who are heading to residential colleges or university this autumn for the first time.
Meningococcal B can cause serious, life-threatening problems including inflammation of the lining of the brain and sepsis (blood poisoning). This can lead to life-changing disabilities such as amputations, hearing loss and brain damage, and in some cases can prove fatal.
The bacteria that cause MenB disease can be spread through close contact with an infected person. This can be through kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or prolonged close contact with the person for long periods of time, such as living in the same home.
Students in their first year of university have a risk that is about seven times higher than that of young people of a similar age who do not go to university.
Who is eligible?
• individuals who were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
• individuals who were born on or after 21 July 2001 and are starting university for the first time in autumn 2026, including international students and those from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands and Isle of Man
• individuals who were born on or after 21 July 2001 and will be starting at some further education colleges for the first time in autumn 2026 as a residential student, including international students and those from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Channel Islands and Isle of Man
How many doses do I need?
• two doses are necessary for protection
• the second dose should be offered a minimum of 28 days after the first dose
To book a MenB vaccination appointment, click here.