Meningitis B Vaccination Service

The service is expected to begin from 20th July, and further details are detailed in the attached letter which outlines key details of the programme and includes clinical guidance to support delivery. Further operational guidance and the service specification are expected shortly.

Why has the programme been introduced? 

The programme has been introduced in response to recent meningitis outbreaks in Kent, Reading & Dorset while the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation undertakes a full review of the evidence.

It is expected that around 1 million young people will be eligible for vaccination.

Who is eligible? 

The service will be available to:

• All Year 13 students (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008);
• Under-25s entering university or residential further education for the first time; and
• International students under 25 years old entering their first year of university.

When will vaccinations be offered? 

The programme will begin in July 2026, giving students sufficient time to complete the recommended two-dose vaccination course before the start of the autumn term, when cases typically begin to increase.

• Dose 1: Available from late July 2026.
• Dose 2: At least 28 days later and ideally before term starts in September.

NHS England will supply the vaccine directly to participating pharmacies from centrally procured stock.

How will students access the service? 

Year 13 students will be contacted by the NHS and provided with a booking link to arrange their vaccination appointment at a community pharmacy.

Eligible university and residential further education students will be able to access the service via walk-in through participating pharmacies.

For further information click here