The MenB Vaccine Is Now Available on the NHS for Eligible Young People
Following a rise in MenB outbreaks across England, a new time-limited NHS vaccination programme launches on 20 July 2026. Fairview Pharmacy is a participating provider, so eligible young people can book their doses with us directly.
Why this programme exists
Meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria can cause serious, life-threatening illness, including meningitis and septicaemia. This year has seen a number of MenB outbreaks across England, including clusters in Kent, Weymouth and Reading, with the Kent outbreak among the largest and fastest-growing recorded in the UK.
Young people starting university or moving into halls of residence are at higher risk, simply because close, prolonged contact with lots of new people in shared living spaces makes it easier for the bacteria to spread. In response, the NHS has introduced a one-off vaccination programme to protect this group before the new academic year begins, while a fuller review of long-term MenB policy continues separately.
Are you eligible?
You're eligible for the free NHS MenB vaccine this summer if you are:
This is separate from the MenACWY vaccine you may already have had at school or as a university catch-up dose. MenACWY protects against different meningococcal strains and does not cover MenB, so it's still worth having both if you're eligible.
How the two doses work
Two doses of the Bexsero vaccine are needed for full protection, so it's worth starting early rather than waiting until you're about to move.
First dose from late July
Book your first dose as soon as you can after the programme opens on 20 July, ideally well before you leave for university or college.
Second dose from August
Your second dose needs to be at least 28 days after the first. Booking both early gives you the best chance of completing the course before term starts.
Full protection around two weeks later
Immunity builds for a further two weeks after your second dose, so the whole process takes about six weeks start to finish.
Programme deadlines
First doses are available until 31 December 2026, and second doses until 31 March 2027, but don't wait if you're heading off in the autumn.
How to get vaccinated at Fairview
Fairview Pharmacy is a participating provider for this NHS programme, so you can book your appointment with us directly.
Private MenB vaccination is still available
Outside this specific NHS programme, MenB isn't routinely free for teenagers and adults. If you don't fall into the eligible groups above, but still want protection, whether that's because you're a returning student, a postgraduate, or simply want peace of mind, Fairview Pharmacy continues to offer MenB vaccination privately.
Possible side effects
As with any vaccine, side effects are possible, though most people find them mild and short-lived.
Some swelling, redness or tenderness at the injection site, along with fever, nausea, headache or muscle aches. These usually settle within a day or two.
Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol can help. Unlike the infant programme, routine preventative paracetamol isn't recommended for this age group.
Serious side effects are rare. Signs of a severe allergic reaction need urgent medical attention, our team is trained to recognise and manage this at the time of vaccination.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need this if I already had the MenACWY vaccine?
Yes. MenACWY protects against different strains of meningococcal bacteria and does not cover MenB, so both are worth having if you're eligible.
Is this a permanent change to who can get MenB free on the NHS?
No. This is a one-off, time-limited programme introduced in response to recent outbreaks, while a fuller review of long-term MenB policy is carried out separately.
What if I haven't received an NHS invitation?
Get in touch with us directly. If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria, particularly as someone starting university for the first time, we can check this with you at booking.
Does the vaccine protect against all types of MenB?
It covers most, but not all, of the MenB strains that commonly cause disease in the UK, including the strain responsible for the recent outbreaks in Canterbury, Weymouth and Reading.
Can international students get vaccinated before arriving in the UK?
Where possible, it's recommended to have the first dose in your home country. If that's not possible, you can complete the course with us once you arrive, ideally as soon as you can after starting term.
What if I'm not eligible for the NHS programme?
You can still have the MenB vaccine privately at Fairview Pharmacy. Get in touch and we'll talk you through it.
Book your MenB vaccination at Fairview
Whether you've had an NHS invitation or think you're eligible, our team can get you booked in and answer any questions beforehand.
This page is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Vaccination is subject to a clinical suitability check at your appointment. Eligibility for the NHS programme described here is set by NHS England and UKHSA and may be subject to change.
