NHS England South West urges university-bound youth to get Meningitis B vaccine

NHS England South West has launched a limited‑time programme offering the MenB vaccine to students heading to university or residential further education this autumn. Eligible groups are 17‑ and 18‑year‑olds born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, and under‑25s born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting higher‑education for the first time. Appointments are available at high‑street pharmacies across the South West, with 17‑ and 18‑year‑olds booking via the NHS National Booking Service and under‑25s arranging their first dose directly with the pharmacy. Two doses, spaced at least 28 days apart, are required for protection.

Matthew Dominey, screening and immunisation lead for NHS England South West, warned that first‑year university students face a risk of MenB infection about seven times higher than peers not in university, due to close‑contact living conditions. He added that receiving the vaccine now allows enough time for both doses before the typical seasonal rise in cases. Chief pharmacist Catriona Ketiar echoed the call, stressing the heightened risk in shared living environments and urging young people to secure their appointments before leaving home.