UNDER 25s in Warwickshire are being urged to have the new MenB vaccination.
The new, time-limited Meningococcal group B bacteria (MenB) vaccine is being offered to all Year 13 students and under 25s across England and Wales, who are at higher risk.
National government is rolling this vaccine out as part of a one-off programme, for the first time. Eligible students will need two doses of the MenB vaccination for protection, with the first dose being offered from late July and the second dose from August.
Eligibility for this vaccination is open to young people currently in school Year 13 in England and Wales, all undergraduate freshers born on or after July 21 2001 who will be attending university for the first time in autumn 2026, and anyone born on or after July 21 2001 who will be living in further education accommodation or halls of residence for the first time in autumn 2026. International students under 25 entering their first year of university should receive their first dose in their home country where possible.
Warwickshire County Council’s health spokesperson Coun Anne Marie-Sonko said: “It’s important that anyone eligible who is going to university or living in halls at a further education college for the first time gets both doses of the MenB vaccine. If you’re eligible, please don’t wait, get the protection you need before you leave home for university or college, book as soon as you can.”
Two doses are needed for protection. The second dose of the vaccine should be given at least 28 days after the first, and it takes further two weeks for the body to build a good level of immunity. It’s important to have both vaccinations before the start of the autumn term. Protection lasts for at least five years.
Where to get the vaccinations depends on age. Starting in July, students in the age group for Year 13, will be contacted by the NHS with a link to book a pharmacy appointment. University and residential further education students who are eligible will be able to arrange a walk-in vaccination at participating pharmacies.
Signs and symptoms of meningitis include fever, a very bad headache, vomiting, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, rash, confusion, delirium, severe sleepiness, losing consciousness and seizures.
Visit ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/06/12/who-is-eligible-forthe-new-one-off-menb-vaccine-programme/ for more details.
