The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has recommended that teenagers be offered the meningitis B (menB) vaccine on the NHS. The proposal, which requires government approval, suggests a booster jab around age 15 for those already vaccinated as babies, and two doses for older teens who missed the infant programme.
Outbreaks Prompt Action
The recommendation follows a series of meningitis outbreaks, most notably in Kent earlier this year, where two teenagers died. The JCVI's advice aims to protect young people at the age when they are next most at risk.
Details of the Recommendation
The JCVI recommends:
- A booster jab around age 15 for those who had a menB jab as a baby (born on or after May 1, 2015). The first cohort affected will turn 15 in 2030. Children who missed the infant jab will be offered two doses.
- Two doses of the menB vaccine for children born on or before April 30, 2015, given around age 15. This group was not offered the vaccine as babies.
- A catch-up programme to ensure no one misses out during implementation.
This move is separate from a summer programme announced last month, which offers the menB vaccine to around one million Year 13 pupils and under-25s starting university this autumn. That programme provides two doses, with the first from July 20 and the second in August, at least 28 days apart.
Expert Comments
Professor Wei Shen Lim, chairman of the JCVI, said: “Following the meningitis outbreaks in early 2026, a one-off programme for two-doses of menB vaccine is being offered to eligible young people this summer. We encourage everyone who is eligible to book an appointment online to receive the vaccine at a local pharmacy, in time for the second dose to be received before heading off to university or college. For protection, two doses of the menB vaccine are necessary, at least 28 days apart.” He added that the JCVI has also provided a recommendation for a future routine adolescent vaccination programme for those around 15, which the Department of Health will consider.
Effectiveness and Background
Data indicates the menB vaccine is highly effective, providing strong protection for at least five years. The Kent outbreak was the fastest-growing and largest seen in the UK, with subsequent clusters also larger than expected. Close contact in halls of residence and social events increases risk. MenB cases typically peak in October to November.
Dr Shamez Ladhani, consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), explained that population immunity against menB is currently low after 25 years of declining cases. Meningococcal disease cycles every 20 to 30 years, and new strains emerge as immunity wanes, leading to rising cases.
