Meningitis vaccines: what patients and parents need to know in 2026
Meningitis can develop quickly and, in some cases, become life-threatening. It may be caused by different bacteria and viruses, which is why no single vaccine protects against every type of meningitis. However, vaccination remains one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of severe meningococcal disease, including meningitis and septicaemia.
In the UK, the main meningococcal vaccines patients often hear about are MenB and MenACWY. These protect against different groups of meningococcal bacteria, so having one does not replace the need for the other if you are eligible.
What is MenB?
MenB refers to meningococcal group B bacteria. These bacteria can cause serious infections, including meningitis and septicaemia. Although meningococcal disease is uncommon, it can progress rapidly and needs urgent medical attention.
The MenB vaccine is already part of the routine NHS childhood immunisation schedule for babies. It is currently offered in infancy, with doses given during the first months of life and a booster around the first birthday.
The new one-off MenB vaccine offer for young people in 2026
A new time-limited MenB vaccination programme has been introduced in England for certain young people at increased risk as they move into university or residential education settings.
From 20 July 2026, MenB vaccination is being offered to:
young people born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
young people born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting undergraduate higher education for the first time in autumn 2026
young people born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting further education for the first time in autumn 2026 and will be living in residential further education accommodation or halls of residence
This includes eligible international students and students coming to England from other parts of the UK, Crown Dependencies or overseas.
Eligible students need two doses of the MenB vaccine. The second dose should be given at least 28 days after the first, and it takes around a further two weeks for immunity to build. For this reason, students are encouraged to begin the course as early as possible before the autumn term.
First doses are expected to be available until 31 December 2026, with second doses available until 31 March 2027.
Why students are being prioritised
Meningococcal bacteria can spread more easily when people are living or socialising closely together. Students moving into halls of residence or similar shared accommodation may be exposed to many new contacts in a short period of time.
The new programme is a targeted, time-limited offer for groups considered to be at higher risk, while national experts continue to review the evidence.
What about MenACWY?
The MenACWY vaccine protects against meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y. It does not protect against MenB.
MenACWY is routinely offered to teenagers, usually in school. Young people who missed their routine MenACWY vaccine may remain eligible for catch-up vaccination on the NHS up to their 25th birthday.
It is worth checking whether teenagers and young adults are up to date with MenACWY, especially before starting university or college.
Can MenB be given privately?
Some people who are not eligible for the NHS MenB programme may choose to have MenB vaccination privately. This may include older children, teenagers or adults outside the current NHS eligibility groups.
A private GP or vaccination clinic can advise whether the vaccine is appropriate, how many doses are needed, and the timing between doses.
Are there side effects?
As with many vaccines, side effects are usually mild and short-lived. They may include tenderness, redness or swelling where the injection was given, fever, headache, nausea or muscle aches. These symptoms usually settle within a day or two.
Serious side effects are rare, but anyone with concerns after vaccination should seek medical advice.
Vaccination does not remove the need to recognise symptoms
Meningitis and septicaemia can still occur in vaccinated people, because no vaccine protects against every possible cause of meningitis.
Seek urgent medical help if someone is very unwell or has symptoms such as:
fever with a severe headache
neck stiffness
dislike of bright lights
confusion, drowsiness or difficulty waking
vomiting
cold hands and feet
rapid breathing
a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
Symptoms can appear differently in babies and young children. Trust your instincts: if someone seems seriously unwell or is deteriorating quickly, seek urgent medical attention.
What should patients do now?
If you or your child may be eligible for the new MenB programme, check the latest NHS booking information and aim to complete both doses before starting university or residential education. Alternatively, we can provide these vaccinations at the practice.
Parents of younger children can also check their child’s Red Book or NHS record to confirm whether routine childhood vaccinations are up to date.
If you are unsure whether you or your child has received MenB or MenACWY, or if you would like to discuss private vaccination options, please contact the practice for advice.
Useful links:
GOV.UK: Thousands of young people to be offered two-dose MenB vaccine
GOV.UK: MenB time-limited vaccination offer letter