A new, time-limited MenB vaccine offer is available this summer for Year 13 students and under 25s who will be starting university as undergraduates or moving into residential further education settings for the first time in autumn 2026.
Meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria can cause serious, life-threatening illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia which can both lead to sepsis. Being around lots of new people in shared living spaces like university halls increases the risk of the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease spreading. Getting 2 doses of the MenB vaccine before the autumn term is one of the most important things young people can do to protect themselves.
Who is eligible for this vaccine?
- young people currently in school Year 13 in England and Wales (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008), in year S6 in Scotland (born between 01 March 2008 and 28 February 2009) and in year 14 in Northern Ireland born between 02 July 2007 and 01 July 2008
- all undergraduate freshers who turn 25 after 31 December 2026 who will be attending university for the first time in autumn 2026
- anyone who turns 25 after 31 December 2026 and who will be living in further education accommodation or halls of residence for the first time in autumn 2026
This includes international students who may not arrive in the UK until September. The programme is available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as in Crown Dependencies.
For more information visit: https://ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/06/12/who-is-eligible-for-the-new-one-off-menb-vaccine-programme/