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Meningitis B Vaccination

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Meningitis B Vaccination

NHS Meningitis B Vaccination

Meningococcal group B bacteria is a serious cause of life-threatening infections, including meningitis and blood poisoning worldwide. There are 12 known groups of meningococcal bacteria, and group B (MenB) is the most common, responsible for about 90% of meningococcal infections in the UK. This bacterium can spread to people through prolonged close contact. Meningococcal infections tend to come in bursts. In the past 20 years, between 500 and 1,700 people, every year have suffered from MenB disease, with around 1 in 10 dying from the infection. Many of those who survive suffer terrible permanent disability, such as amputation, brain damage and epilepsy.

MenB Vaccination Programme – Starts 20 July 2026

From 20 July 2026, the NHS is offering a free MenB (meningococcal B) vaccine to eligible young people in England as part of a time-limited vaccination programme.

MenB is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Although uncommon, it can develop rapidly and may be life-threatening.

Please note: The NHS MenB vaccination programme is time-limited. Eligible patients can receive their first dose until 31 December 2026, with second doses available until 31 March 2027. To ensure the best protection before the start of the academic year, the NHS recommends having both doses during July and August 2026, where possible

For more information about Meningitis : https://www.meningitisnow.org/meningitis-explained/

Who is eligible?

You may be eligible for the free MenB vaccine if you are:

  • A young person born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 (current Year 13 or equivalent age), regardless of your plans after school.
  • Under 25 years old (born on or after 21 July 2001) and starting university or residential further education for the first time in autumn 2026. This includes students living in university halls or eligible residential further education accommodation.
  • If you are eligible, you may receive an invitation via the NHS App, text message, email or letter. Eligible university and residential further education students can also book directly with participating pharmacies from 20 July 2026.

What are the side effects to getting the vaccine?

Vaccinations shouldn’t cause too much discomfort, although the injected area can become sore and red. Most side effects are mild and go away within a few days. They are a sign that your immune system is responding to the vaccine.

Common side effects include:

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection was given
  • Tenderness or bruising at the injection site
  • Feeling tired or generally unwell
  • Headache
  • Muscle or joint aches
  • Nausea (feeling sick)

Less common side effects include:

  • Fever (high temperature)
  • Chills
  • Swollen glands
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea

 

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are very rare. Vaccination staff are trained to recognise and treat allergic reactions immediately.

Check your eligibility and book your appointment

The easiest way to find out if you’re eligible for the NHS MenB vaccination programme is to use the NHS online service.

The NHS website will:

  • Check whether you’re eligible for the free MenB vaccine.
  • Help you find a participating pharmacy near you.
  • Allow eligible patients to book an appointment online.

Check your eligibility and book your appointment here:

Book a MenB vaccination appointment – NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-a-menb-vaccination-appointment/

If you are unable to book online, please call us on 01353 727695 and a member of our team will be happy to help.l

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