Students in England are being urged to get free Meningitis B vaccinations as soon as possible to protect themselves before university terms begin next month. The NHS campaign, launched on July 20, offers a two-dose vaccine to around one million eligible young people, but fewer than 100,000 have received it so far.
Deadly outbreaks prompt urgent action
The one-off programme was introduced after three students died earlier this year in separate clusters in Kent and Berkshire, with a further cluster recorded in Weymouth, Dorset. Health experts stress that vaccination is a simple way to give students and parents peace of mind before they head off to university.
Pharmacist Wendy Lee of Well Pharmacy said: “Starting university means youngsters are meeting lots of new people and often living in close-contact settings such as halls of residence, where infections can spread more easily.”
Vaccination details and eligibility
Lee added: “A big thing to remember is this is not a single vaccination. The course requires two doses given at least four weeks apart. So, we encourage students and parents to book now so they are protected rather than waiting until university is about to start.”
The jabs are available to young people who were in Year 13 during the 2025/26 academic year, first-time university students under 25 who will be living in halls or other residential accommodation, and international students under 25 starting at university this year.
Symptoms and further information
Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection that can cause life-threatening meningitis and septicaemia within hours of infection, with one in 10 cases fatal. Symptoms may include a temperature, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, cold hands and feet, confusion, drowsiness, a stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, and a rash that does not fade under pressure.
Anyone concerned about symptoms should seek urgent medical help. Pharmacists can provide advice on signs and symptoms, when to seek urgent care, and eligibility for the free NHS vaccination. The jab is available at participating pharmacies, including those run by Well, in England. Students and parents can check eligibility and find their nearest pharmacy through the NHS website. For those not eligible, the vaccine is also available privately at many pharmacies.
