Young people across Wales will be offered the meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine for the first time during autumn 2026 as part of a time-limited programme.
The initiative is being launched as a precautionary step following the unprecedented MenB outbreak that primarily affected University of Kent students in March 2026, along with other recent unseasonal clusters across the UK.
MenB is the most common cause of invasive meningococcal disease in the UK and can result in meningitis and sepsis – both potentially fatal conditions.
Research demonstrates young people are at elevated risk of contracting MenB, with particularly heightened dangers in higher education environments due to extensive close social interaction.
Vaccination Programme Details
The vaccination programme will operate from July through December 2026 and will be accessible to all those currently aged 17-18 years (born between September 1, 2007, and August 31, 2008) as well as anyone aged 18-25 who will be starting higher education or residential further education for the first time in autumn 2026, including international students.
The vaccine will be administered in a two-dose schedule. Those aged 17-18 will receive an invitation letter from their health board from July 6 with details on how to obtain their vaccine.
Those aged 18-25 who will be commencing higher education or residential further education for the first time this autumn, including international students, will need to contact their health board after July 20 for further information.
Official Statements
Deputy minister for public and preventative health Nerys Evans said: "Meningococcal B is a rare but extremely serious disease that can progress quickly and devastate young lives.
Following recent outbreaks across the UK the Welsh Government has acted decisively to ensure that young people in Wales will be offered this additional protection and I urge everyone who is eligible to take up their vaccination offer."
Wales' chief medical officer, Professor Isabel Oliver, said: "This is a safe and effective vaccine that will offer important protection to those who receive it.
With the new academic year approaching it is vital that eligible young people come forward for both doses as soon as the programme opens. I encourage all those who qualify to act promptly."
Dr Christopher Johnson, head of vaccine-preventable disease programme at Public Health Wales, said: "Young people heading to university for the first time are at an elevated risk of meningitis B as they mix with new groups of people while enjoying their new environment.
Having two doses of this vaccination, ideally before they depart for university, will give them the best protection against this infection, which can cause such serious illness."
