MenB vaccination
Young people heading to university or residential further education this autumn are being encouraged to book a free Meningitis B (MenB) vaccination at a local pharmacy.
Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and sepsis (blood poisoning). It can lead to life-changing disabilities, including hearing loss, brain damage and amputations, and can be fatal.
The vaccine is being offered through community pharmacies across the South West and England to help protect eligible young people before they leave home for university or college.
First-year university students are at increased risk because of close contact with lots of new people in shared living and social environments.
Two doses of the vaccine are needed for effective protection, with at least 28 days between them, so booking early will help ensure both doses are received before starting university.
Book your appointment now through the NHS National Booking Service > Book a MenB vaccination appointment – NHS
Find a local pharmacy offering walk-in MenB vaccinations > Find a pharmacy that offers walk-in MenB vaccinations for young people – NHS
Student checklist
✔ Are you eligible?
You may be eligible for the MenB vaccine if you:
✅ Are aged 17 or 18 and born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
✅ Are starting university for the first time this autumn and were born on or after 21 July 2001
✅ Are starting a residential further education college for the first time this autumn and were born on or after 21 July 2001
✔ Before you leave for university
✅ Book your first vaccine appointment or walk-in appointment at a participating pharmacy.
✅ Get your second dose at least 28 days later
✅ Make sure you’re protected before term starts