One-off MenB Vaccination Announcement

The government has announced a one-off vaccination programme to help to protect those at highest immediate risk of MenB disease ahead of the usual autumn peak in meningitis in this age group.

Eligibility will be as follows:

• One-off MenB vaccination programme to protect all Year 13 pupils, and those under 25 starting university or residential further education for the first time this autumn.
• Eligible students will need two doses for protection, with the first being offered from July with second dose given in August
• International students under 25 entering their first year of university, should receive their first dose in their home country where possible

Delivery of the programme is expected to be led via community pharmacy with delivery commencing by the end of July. Those eligible in Year 13 will be contacted directly through the NHS app, text, email, or letter depending on records held by the health service. Those under 25 years of age and starting university for the first time will be able to book their appointments directly with a community pharmacy in due course. Post-graduates or those starting a second (or later) year will not be covered by this offer. 

Whilst this announcement concerns a one-off programme, further advice from the JCVI on the considerations for a longer programme will follow in due course.

Published: Jun 12, 2026