A one-off meningococcal B MenB vaccination programme will be available this summer for eligible groups of young people, including Year 13 students and individuals under 25 who are planning to begin university as undergraduates move into student accommodation for the first time in autumn 2026.
This initiative has been introduced following recent cases of meningitis and will remain in place while the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) carries out a full review of current evidence.
Those who qualify for the vaccine will require two doses for effective protection. The first dose will be available from late July, with the second dose offered from August.
Meningococcal disease is life-threatening and can result in life-changing disabilities such as amputations, hearing loss and brain damage. It is fatal in around 10% of cases. The viruses and bacteria that cause meningitis can be spread through close contact with a person who has them. This can be through kissing or sharing drinks or vapes or close contact with the person for long periods of time, such as living in the same home.
Given the potential severity of meningococcal disease, Cheshire and Merseyside’s Directors of Public Health and Population Health are urging young people in get vaccinated.
Professor Helen Bromley, Director of Public Health for Cheshire West and Chester and Lead Champs Director for Health Protection:
“For young people across Cheshire and Merseyside, preparing to start university or move into student accommodation, this is a one-off opportunity to get protected against MenB.
“We know that the disease can spread quickly in shared living environments, and cases can become serious in a matter of hours. This is why it is so important that everyone eligible takes up this offer as soon as possible and completes both doses before the autumn term.
“Don’t delay – getting vaccinated could protect you and your friends at a crucial point in your lives. It’s a simple step that can make a life-saving difference.”
Where and when can vaccinations be accessed?
In England, the vaccine will be available through community pharmacies (subject to consultation with Community Pharmacy England). The programme launches in July 2026 to allow enough time for both doses to be administered before cases typically increase in autumn.
Year 13 students will be contacted by the NHS and provided with a booking link for pharmacy appointments. Eligible university and further education students will be able to attend participating pharmacies without an appointment.
First doses can be given up until 31 December 2026, and second doses until 31 March 2027. Everyone eligible is encouraged to complete the full course promptly and ensure all other vaccinations are up to date.
For more information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/thousands-of-young-people-to-be-offered-two-dose-menb-vaccine
