Starting uni? What to know about the free NHS meningitis B jab in England

A free meningitis B vaccine has been made available to a million young people in England, following a concerning outbreak in Kent earlier this year. The vaccine offers protection against the fast-growing MenB strain, which claimed two lives and left 29 cases in Kent. The vaccine is administered as two doses, at least 28 days apart, and does not contain live bacteria, so it cannot cause meningitis. Side effects, if any, are minor and temporary, including swelling, redness, mild fever, nausea, headache, or muscle aches.

Eligible individuals include 17 and 18-year-olds starting university or a residential college this autumn, international students and students from other UK regions studying in England, and those traveling abroad to study. Walk-in services are available at participating pharmacies for those born on or after 21 July 2001. No GP registration is required for walk-in services.

The outbreak in Kent highlighted the higher risk faced by university students, with NHS England reporting a seven times higher risk for those in their first year. Meningitis can lead to severe complications, such as brain inflammation, blood poisoning, and life-long disabilities or even death. The MenB vaccine was previously included in the UK NHS childhood immunisation programme for babies but was not offered to teenagers and young adults over 11. UK vaccine experts now advocate for routine offer to all teenagers at around age 15.

While the vaccine may not prevent transmission or protect against all MenB strains long-term, it can prevent serious illness. Around 10,000 individuals in the Kent region had already received the vaccine as part of the outbreak response. All pupils completing Year 13 or S6 in the summer of 2026, as well as 18-25-year-olds starting university or moving into residential further education settings, are eligible for the vaccine.

In Wales, those aged 17-18 will receive a letter invite, while those aged 18-25 entering higher education need to contact their health board later in July.