A One-Off MenB Vaccination Programme Launches and here is what you need to know
Community pharmacists across England are set to play a key role in delivering a new one-off meningococcal B (MenB) vaccination programme aimed at protecting young people ahead of the new academic year.
Meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria can cause serious, life-threatening illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia which can both lead to sepsis. Being around lots of new people in shared living spaces like university halls increases the risk of the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease spreading. Getting 2 doses of the MenB vaccine before the autumn term is one of the most important things young people can do to protect themselves.
Young people in the eligible groups will have been offered MenACWY vaccine in year 9 or year 10. This vaccine protects against other kinds of meningococcal bacteria but will not help protect against MenB disease. So, even if someone has already received the MenACWY vaccine, getting the MenB vaccine is important
Who Is Eligible?
The temporary programme will offer a two-dose MenB vaccination course to:
- All Year 13 students in England (typically aged 17–18 years)
- Individuals under 25 years old who are starting university for the first time in autumn 2026
- Young people under 25 entering residential further education settings for the first time
The initiative is designed to provide protection before students enter higher-risk environments such as university halls of residence, where close and prolonged contact can facilitate transmission of meningococcal bacteria.
It is really important that anyone eligible who is going to university or living in halls at a further education college for the first time gets both doses of the MenB vaccine wherever possible before they leave home. If you’re eligible, don’t wait – book as soon as you can.
This is ONLY been offered at Community Pharmacies.
In England, vaccines will be available at community pharmacies. The programme starts in July 2026, giving eligible people time to complete both doses before cases typically rise in the autumn. Students in the age group for Year 13 will be contacted by the NHS and sent a link through which they can book a pharmacy appointment to get the vaccine. University and residential further education students who are eligible will be able to arrange a vaccination via walk-in at participating pharmacy.
For more information visit: Thousands of young people to be offered 2-dose MenB vaccine – GOV.UK