NHS Meningitis B vaccinations
from July 2026 - date to be confirmed
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NHS Meningitis B vaccinations
Vaccination clinic dates will be confirmed but are likely to run on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays
A new, time-limited MenB vaccine offer is available this summer for Year 13 students and under 25s who will be starting university as undergraduates or moving into residential further education settings for the first time in autumn 2026.
You can check eligibility guidelines below.
The programme has been introduced by the NHS in response to recent meningitis outbreaks .
Eligible students will need 2 doses of the MenB vaccine for protection, with the first being offered from late July and the second dose from August.
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Why get vaccinated?
A free of charge NHS service
Meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria can cause serious, life-threatening illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia which can both lead to sepsis.
Being around lots of new people in shared living spaces like university halls increases the risk of the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease spreading. Getting 2 doses of the MenB vaccine before the autumn term is one of the most important things young people can do to protect themselves.
Young people in the eligible groups will have been offered MenACWY vaccine in year 9 or year 10. This vaccine protects against other kinds of meningococcal bacteria but will not help protect against MenB disease. So, even if someone has already received the MenACWY vaccine, getting the MenB vaccine is important
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Who is eligible?
Keeping young people safe
People who can be vaccinated as part of the NHS programme in the summer of 2026:
- young people currently in school Year 13 in England and Wales (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008), in year S6 in Scotland (born between 01 March 2008 and 28 February 2009) and in year 14 in Northern Ireland born between 02 July 2007 and 01 July 2008
- all undergraduate freshers born on or after 21 July 2001 who will be attending university for the first time in autumn 2026.
- anyone born on or after 21 July 2001 who will be living in further education accommodation or halls of residence for the first time in autumn 2026.
This includes international students who may not arrive in the UK until September. The programme is available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as in Crown Dependencies.
If you don't fall in these categories then the private vaccine is available for £99 - just book a travel clinic appointment.
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Why isn't everyone being vaccinated?
Vaccines are being offered to those at highest risk of contracting Meningitis B
This is a one-off, time-limited programme to offer vaccination to those at highest risk.
Data on invasive meningococcal disease over the last 5 years has shown that after infancy, the highest number of cases are seen in 18- to 19-year-olds. Students in their first year of university have a risk that is about 7 times higher than young people of a similar age who do not go to university.
It is really 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 wherever possible before they leave home. If you're eligible, don't wait - book as soon as you can.
Further information
Everything you need to know about the Wicker Clinic NHS Meningitis B vaccination service
1. What is the Meningitis B (Men B) vaccine offered at your Sheffield pharmacy?
The Meningitis B vaccine (also known as
MenB vaccine) helps protect against Neisseria meningitidis group B, a bacteria that can cause serious infections such as meningitis (inflammation of the brain lining) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). The exact brand of Men B vaccine offered will depend on the one decided by the NHS, which is yet to be announced.
2. Who should have the MenB vaccine?
The MenB vaccine is recommended for:
- Babies and young children (as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme)
- Teenagers and adults at higher risk
- Anyone seeking private protection against meningitis B
At Wicker Pharmacy, we provide private MenB vaccinations for eligible age groups who want extra protection.
and the NHS vaccination for:
- young people currently in school Year 13 in England and Wales (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008), in year S6 in Scotland (born between 01 March 2008 and 28 February 2009) and in year 14 in Northern Ireland born between 02 July 2007 and 01 July 2008
- all undergraduate freshers born on or after 21 July 2001 who will be attending university for the first time in autumn 2026.
- anyone born on or after 21 July 2001 who will be living in further education accommodation or halls of residence for the first time in autumn 2026.
This includes international students who may not arrive in the UK until September. The programme is available in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, as well as in Crown Dependencies.
3. Where can I get a Meningitis B vaccination in Sheffield?
You can receive your MenB vaccine at Wicker Pharmacy Clinic in Sheffield.
We offer a convenient, local service with trained pharmacists providing safe and professional vaccinations.
4. How effective is the MenB vaccine?
The MenB vaccine is
highly effective at protecting against most strains of meningitis B and significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and complications.
5. How many MenB vaccine doses are required for adults?
Older children & adults typically require 2 doses, spaced at least 28 days apart.
Our pharmacist will advise you on the correct schedule during your appointment. The NHS MenB vaccination service will start late July 2026 and the first dose must be administered before 31st December 2026 with the second dose being administered before 31st March 2026.
6. Is the MenB vaccine safe?
Yes, the MenB vaccine is
clinically tested and widely used in the UK.
Common side effects may include:
- Mild fever
- Soreness at the injection site
- Tiredness
Serious side effects are very rare.
For further information about the Bexsero brand of MenB vaccine see the
Bexsero patient information leaflet
7. How quickly does the vaccine work?
Protection usually begins
within a few weeks after vaccination, but full protection requires completing the recommended course.
8. What are the symptoms of meningitis B?
It’s important to recognise symptoms early. These can include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Unusual rash
If you suspect meningitis,
seek urgent medical attention immediately (dial 999 or go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department)
9. Where is there more information about the NHS MenB vaccination programme?
For further information about the NHS MenB vaccination programme go to the following link: Who is eligible for the new one-off MenB vaccine programme? – UK Health Security Agency
Still have a question?
Please contact us using the button below. We can only answer online queries during office hours so if you have an urgent query please call the pharmacy.