Following the recent outbreak in the South East of England, eligible young adults nationwide are to receive a two-dose Meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine.
The government has introduced a targeted programme offering free vaccines to current Year 13 pupils and under-25s starting university or residential further education for the first time. The first dose is administered in July and the second in August.
MenB Vaccine for Young Adults
Meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria are the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the UK, with cases spiking significantly among 18 to 19-year-olds living in shared university halls.
Eligibility Guidelines (Autumn 2026)
Individuals are eligible for the targeted NHS one-off vaccine programme if they are:
- A young person currently in school Year 13.
- An undergraduate fresher under age 25 starting university for the first time.
- Under 25 and starting residential further education for the first time.
- An international student moving into university halls or residential college for the first time.
Getting the Vaccine
- NHS Route: Eligible students will be contacted via the NHS App, text, and email. Bookings can be made directly through available community pharmacies.
- Private Route: Those not eligible for the free one-off programme (such as older adults or those not entering higher education) can opt to get the vaccine privately. Private services (using the Bexsero vaccine) are offered by various health clinics.
Important Details
- Two-Dose Requirement: The vaccine requires two doses spaced at least four weeks apart to be fully effective. It takes an additional two weeks after the second dose to build maximum immunity.
- MenACWY vs. MenB: The MenB vaccine is entirely different from the MenACWY vaccine, which you may have received in Year 9 or 10. Even if you had the MenACWY jab, the MenB vaccine is crucial to protect against the MenB strain.
https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/06/12/who-is-eligible-for-the-new-one-off-menb-vaccine-programme/