Thousands of students heading to university or residential college this autumn will be eligible for a free meningococcal group B (MenB) vaccine, following an outbreak in Kent earlier this year that was linked to two deaths. From July 20, participating pharmacies across England will offer MenB vaccinations to eligible students. Here’s what you need to know.

The MenB vaccine helps protect against meningococcal group B bacteria, which can cause meningitis and septicaemia – serious infections that can rapidly become life-threatening.

I’m starting university this autumn but I’m not 18 yet – am I still eligible?

Yes. If you are starting university for the first time in autumn 2026 and were born on or after July 21, 2001, you are eligible even if you have not yet turned 18. Many students entering university this year will be 17 years old when the programme begins.

If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, check the NHS guidance or speak to a participating pharmacy, your GP, or your university’s student advice services.

What if I already had a meningitis vaccine as a baby – do I need this one too?

It depends on which meningitis vaccine you received and when. Most older teenagers and young adults were born before the MenB vaccine was routinely offered to babies. Although they may have received other meningitis vaccines, such as MenACWY. These do not protect against........

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