Information from: NHS Integrated Care Board
Free two-dose MenB vaccine for new Uni students
Meningococcal B disease, known as MenB, can develop quickly and cause serious, life-threatening illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia. Students living in shared accommodation can be at increased risk because they are mixing closely with lots of new people..
The FREE two-dose MenB vaccination course is available to:
- 17 to 18-year-olds (Year 13) born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008.
• People aged 24 or under starting university for the first time this autumn or starting at some residential further education settings.
Eligible young people can book a MenB vaccination or find their nearest pharmacy offering MenB vaccinations through the National Booking Service.
Matthew Missen, Public Health Consultant for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, said: “Meningitis from MenB infection is uncommon but can become life-threatening very quickly. It is important that young people know the signs and symptoms and seek urgent medical help if they are concerned.
“Starting university is an exciting time for students but does come with increased risk of infection spreading when living in halls of residence and socialising closely with lots of new people. Making sure you are protected through two free doses of MenB vaccination at a pharmacy near you is one of the best ways to help reduce the risk of MenB disease, which can cause severe infection and emergency hospital admission to treat meningitis and septicaemia.
“It’s also a good time to check that you’re up to date with all NHS routine vaccinations before heading to university. You can check your vaccination records on the NHS App or speak to your GP Practice if you’re unsure.”
Eligible young people can book a MenB vaccination or find their nearest pharmacy offering MenB vaccinations through the National Booking Service.
The MenB vaccination is free for eligible young people. As this is a time-limited programme, anyone wanting the full two-dose course should book soon. First doses are available until 31 December 2026, and the final dose must be administered by 31 March 2027. The second dose should be given at least 28 days after the first.
For more information about meningitis, click here.
For more information about NHS vaccinations and when to have them, click here.