NHS England is offering Meningitis B (MenB) vaccinations for young people before starting University

What is meningitis and why is the vaccination important? 

Meningitis is an infection of the protective layers that cover the brain and spinal cord. 

New students are more at risk of catching diseases like meningitis because they mix with lots of other students from across the UK and abroad. The best way to protect yourself against meningitis is with two doses of the MenB vaccine. 

Published:

Who is eligible 

If you fit in the below categories, you are eligible for the Men B vaccination: 

  • Born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 and in Year 13 for the 2025/26 academic year
  • Under 25 and attending university for the first time in autumn 2026

This includes international students, with additional advice below.

International students

If you are an international student and fit into one of the above groups, we recommend that you are fully vaccinated with two doses of the MenB vaccination before travelling to the UK. 

If you have already travelled to the UK and have not been vaccinated, you can receive the vaccine at community pharmacies in the UK. 

How to get the vaccine 

If you meet the criteria above, you can book your vaccination online now at the NHS website

Meningitis symptoms to look out for 

Fast action when meningitis symptoms start is essential. If you or someone you know is showing any of the signs below, please call 999 as soon as possible. Symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • A very bad headache
  • Vomiting
  • Stiff neck
  • Dislike of bright lights
  • Confusion, delirium
  • Severe sleepiness, losing consciousness
  • Seizures
  • Rash (do the glass test)

Further support and information 

For more information about Meningitis vaccinations, symptoms and treatments, have a look at the NHS and Meningitis Now websites.