Have you had your meningitis vaccines?

All university students should make sure they are vaccinated

Meningitis Information

Meningitis is a serious infection which can be life-threatening. University students are at increased risk, and vaccination is one of the most important ways to protect yourself.

There are two different vaccines, MenB and MenACWY, which protect against different types of meningococcal bacteria.

Get your free MenB vaccine

A free MenB vaccination programme is available in 2026/27 for eligible young people, including students starting university for the first time.

You may be eligible if:

• You were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008.

• You were born on or after 21 July 2001 and started university for the first time in autumn 2026, including international students.

You need two doses, at least 28 days apart, to complete the course and get the best protection.

Important deadlines:

• First dose: by 31 December 2026

• Second dose: by 31 March 2027

How to get vaccinated

There are two ways to get your free MenB vaccination in England:

• Book an NHS MenB vaccination appointment – if you're registered with a GP in England, you can book online or call 119.

• Find a pharmacy offering MenB vaccinations – find a participating pharmacy offering vaccinations, including walk-in services. You don't need to be registered with a GP.

Already had your first dose? Don't forget your second!

You need two doses to complete the course and get the best protection. Your second dose should be given at least 28 days after your first.

You can book your second dose using either of the NHS services above, even if you received your first dose elsewhere, including at one of our Welcome Week vaccination clinics.

When booking your second dose, let the pharmacy know when and where you received your first dose. If you don't have these details, contact the pharmacy or vaccination provider that administered it.

What about the MenACWY vaccine?

MenACWY protects against four other groups of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W and Y). It does not protect against MenB.

If you're under 25 and haven't previously received MenACWY, you may be eligible to receive it free through your GP, including if you're an international student.

Find out more on the NHS MenACWY vaccine page.

Know the signs and symptoms

MenB and MenACWY vaccines provide important protection, but they don't prevent every type of meningitis. It's still important to recognise the symptoms and seek urgent medical help if you or someone you know becomes unwell.

Read our Is it meningitis? article to learn about the signs and symptoms and what to do if you're concerned.

Read our: Is it meningitis? article to learn about the signs and symptoms and what to do if you're concerned.