MenB Vaccination

A new, time-limited MenB vaccination offer is available for some young people starting college or university in autumn 2026. If you are eligible, you are encouraged to arrange your vaccination as soon as possible so you have time to receive both doses before the start of term.

Book a MenB Vaccination appointment

What is MenB?

Meningococcal group B, known as MenB, is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia. These can both lead to sepsis. The risk of spread can increase where young people are living, studying or socialising closely with others.

Who may be eligible?

You may be eligible for the MenB vaccine if you are in one of the following groups:

  • born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
  • aged under 25 and starting university or higher education for the first time this autumn
  • aged under 25 and starting further education for the first time this autumn and living in college accommodation or halls of residence

International students and students from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man may also be eligible where they meet the relevant criteria.
 

What should I do?
Check whether you are eligible. If you think you are eligible, book your MenB vaccination as soon as possible using the NHS MenB vaccination booking service or by contacting a participating pharmacy. If you are unsure whether you meet the criteria, whether you have already received the vaccine, or whether a vaccine received outside the UK provides equivalent protection, your GP practice, a participating pharmacy or the NHS booking service can advise you.

  • How many doses are needed?

    You need two doses of the MenB vaccine. The second dose must be given at least 28 days after the first dose. Protection develops around 14 days after the second dose, so it is important to start the course as early as possible.

    Students living in college accommodation

    If you have applied to live in college accommodation, it is especially important to check whether you are eligible. Infectious diseases can spread more easily in shared accommodation, where people live and socialise closely with others.
    You may be asked to bring evidence of your college or university offer to your vaccination appointment, so please have this available.
     

  • International students

    If you are an international student, vaccination programmes vary between countries. You are advised to check your vaccination history before you travel and, where possible, seek advice in your home country about whether you have already received a MenB vaccine or an equivalent meningococcal vaccination. This is to help you understand your vaccination status and does not mean that MenB vaccination is a requirement for travel to the UK.

    Other vaccinations

    Before starting college, you should also check that you are up to date with your recommended vaccinations, including MMR, MenACWY, HPV and the Td/IPV booster. If you are unsure which vaccines you have had, or if you need to catch up on any missed vaccinations, please contact your GP practice.
     

Where can I find more information?

You can find further information and book, change or cancel a MenB vaccination appointment on the NHS website:
 

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-a-menb-vaccination-appointment/