NHS Meningitis B Vaccine
If you’re starting university or residential further education this autumn, you may be eligible for a free NHS Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine at our pharmacy.
Meningococcal B disease is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can lead to meningitis and blood poisoning. It can become life-threatening very quickly, and young people living and studying together for the first time are at increased risk.
Our trained pharmacists offer convenient appointments in a private consultation room, making it easy to get protected before term starts.
Who can have the vaccine?
The NHS MenB vaccination programme is available for eligible young people preparing to start university or residential further education for the first time.
If you’re under 25 and starting higher education this year, our pharmacist will confirm your eligibility during your appointment and answer any questions you may have before vaccination.
Who can book online?
The way you book your NHS MenB vaccination depends on your age and circumstances.
Book online if:
You can book an appointment online if you:
- are 17 or 18 years old
- were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
- are registered with a GP in England
The NHS online booking service opens from 13 July 2026. If you’re having your first MenB vaccine, you’ll be able to book your second dose once you have had your first.
Attend one of our walk-in MenB clinics if:
Please attend one of our pharmacy walk-in MenB vaccination clinics instead of booking online if you:
- are aged 24 or under
- are starting university for the first time, or
- are starting residential further education for the first time
You do not need to use the NHS online booking service. Simply attend one of our advertised walk-in clinics, where our pharmacy team will confirm your eligibility before vaccination.
Walk-in vaccinations for this group begin from 20 July 2026.
Speak to your local team for information on their walk-in clinic availability times
Why should I have the MenB vaccine?
Moving away to university means meeting lots of new people, living in shared accommodation and spending more time in close contact with others. These are all situations where meningococcal bacteria can spread more easily.
Although meningococcal disease is uncommon, it can develop rapidly and become very serious. Vaccination is the best way to reduce your risk before you start university.
What happens during my appointment?
Your appointment is simple and usually takes around 20 minutes. One of our trained vaccinators will carry out a short clinical assessment to make sure the vaccine is suitable for you, answer any questions and administer the vaccination if appropriate.
Afterwards, we’ll ask you to remain in the pharmacy for a short period before you leave and explain any common side effects you may experience.
Is the vaccine safe?
The MenB vaccine has been extensively tested and is routinely used across the NHS.
Like all vaccines, some people experience mild side effects such as a sore arm, tiredness, headache or a mild fever. These reactions are usually short-lived and settle within a few days.
If you have any questions before your appointment, our pharmacist will be happy to discuss them with you.
Book your free NHS MenB vaccine
If you’re preparing to start university this year, don’t wait until you’ve moved into halls.
Getting vaccinated before the start of term gives you the best opportunity to build protection before you’re exposed to a new environment.
Book your free NHS MenB vaccination online today.
Not sure which option is right for you?
- Born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 and registered with a GP in England? Book your appointment online.
- Starting university or residential further education and aged 24 or under? Visit one of our MenB walk-in clinics from 20 July 2026. We’ll check your eligibility when you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MenB vaccine?
The MenB vaccine helps protect against meningococcal group B bacteria, which can cause meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Although these infections are rare, they can become very serious very quickly.
Who is eligible for a free NHS MenB vaccine?
The NHS MenB vaccination programme is available for eligible young people preparing to start university or residential further education for the first time.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, our pharmacy team will check your eligibility before you receive the vaccine.
Can I book my MenB vaccination online?
If you’re 17 or 18 years old, born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, and registered with a GP in England, you can book online through the NHS booking service.
If you’re eligible through the university or residential further education programme, you should attend one of our designated walk-in MenB clinics, where we’ll confirm your eligibility before vaccination.
Do I need two doses?
Yes. The NHS MenB vaccination programme consists of two doses, given at least 28 days apart.
For the best protection, you should complete both doses before starting university or moving into student accommodation whenever possible.
I’ve already had the MenACWY vaccine. Do I still need the MenB vaccine?
Yes. The MenACWY vaccine protects against meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y, while the MenB vaccine protects against group B. They protect against different strains of meningococcal bacteria, so you may be advised to have both vaccines.
What happens during my appointment?
Your pharmacist will confirm your eligibility, review your medical history, answer any questions you have and, if appropriate, administer the vaccine in a private consultation room.
After your vaccination, you’ll usually be asked to remain in the pharmacy for around 15 minutes before leaving.
Are there any side effects?
Like all vaccines, the MenB vaccine can cause side effects, although most are mild and short-lived.
The most common side effects include a sore arm, redness or swelling where the injection was given, headache, tiredness, muscle aches and a mild fever. These usually settle within a few days.
Can I have the vaccine if I’m feeling unwell?
If you have a high temperature or are feeling generally unwell, it’s usually recommended that you wait until you’ve recovered before having your vaccination.
If you only have a minor illness, such as a cold, you can usually still be vaccinated.
Is the MenB vaccine safe?
Yes. The MenB vaccine has been thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness and is routinely used by the NHS. As with all medicines and vaccines, your pharmacist will make sure it’s suitable for you before administering it.
How long does the appointment take?
Appointments usually take around 20 minutes, including time to complete your assessment and receive the vaccine. You’ll normally be asked to stay in the pharmacy for a short period afterwards.
How do I prepare for my appointment?
There’s no special preparation needed. Wear clothing that allows easy access to your upper arm and, if possible, bring details of any vaccinations you’ve received recently if you’re unsure of your vaccination history.
What if I’m not eligible for the NHS service?
If you don’t meet the NHS eligibility criteria, our pharmacy team can advise whether there are any alternative vaccination options available or direct you to the most appropriate service.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. If it makes you feel more comfortable, you’re welcome to bring a parent, guardian or friend with you to your appointment.
Why should I get vaccinated before university?
Students starting university are more likely to come into close contact with lots of new people through shared accommodation, lectures and social activities. Having your MenB vaccination before you arrive on campus gives you the best opportunity to build protection before term begins.