The programme has been introduced following recent outbreaks of meningococcal B disease in England and aims to protect students before they arrive at university, where close contact in shared accommodation and social settings can increase the risk of infection.

Who is eligible?

You may be eligible for the free vaccine. Please check the UK Health Security Agency to check. Or, if you are unsure, please ask your local pharmacist.

Why should I get vaccinated?

Meningococcal B bacteria can cause meningitis and septicaemia, both of which are serious illnesses that can become life threatening very quickly.

Although meningococcal disease is rare, the risk is higher among young people starting university because they often live, study and socialise in close contact with others. Vaccination is the most effective way to reduce your risk.

How to get the vaccine

The MenB vaccine is given as two doses, at least 28 days apart. To help ensure you are protected before the start of term, the NHS is encouraging eligible students to have their first dose from 20 July, followed by a second dose in August.

Eligible students will be invited to book their vaccination through participating community pharmacies. If you think you are eligible but have not received an invitation, contact your GP practice or a participating pharmacy. Non-eligible students can purchase the vaccine from participating pharmacies.

Find out more

For full eligibility information and answers to frequently asked questions, visit the UK Health Security Agency guidance on the one-off MenB vaccination programme.

There is further information about which other vaccinations and medications might be applicable to you on Student Hub.

The main vaccinations you should consider cover:

• measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
• MenACWY
• HPV (human papillomavirus)
• MenB*

You may be able to get these free of charge if you register with a doctor. Many students will be eligible for the Meningitis B vaccine for free. If you are unsure if this applies to you, please consult your local pharmacist. 

Find out about the MMR vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella, including who should have it, when it's given and possible side effects.

First doses of Men B vaccine to the eligible cohorts will be available until 31 December 2026 and second doses up to 31 March 2027. The programme is delivered by community pharmacies only.

Students can find a pharmacy and book an appointment via this link: Book a MenB vaccination appointment - NHS

A guide to the Men B vaccination programme for students including eligibility is here: A guide to Meningococcal B vaccination for eligible young people - GOV.UK

In England, the following groups are eligible: young people aged 17 or 18 who were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 and are registered with a GP surgery in England, all undergraduate freshers born on or after 21 July 2001 who will be attending university for the first time in autumn 2026

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