In January 2026, Aaron Mills, an 18-year-old student at Liverpool John Moores University, died from meningitis after suffering what seemed like mild flu-like symptoms. His parents later discovered that while he had been vaccinated against some strains of meningitis, he was not protected against meningitis B. His story is one of several that have prompted the UK government to launch a one-off vaccination programme offering the MenB vaccine to around one million young people, starting in July 2026.
The vaccine, known as Bexsero, will be offered as two doses at least 28 days apart. It protects against most strains of meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria, which can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). The programme targets those considered at highest risk: pupils currently in their last year of secondary school (Year 13 in England and Wales, or equivalent in Scotland and Northern Ireland) and anyone under 25 who is starting university or residential further education for the first time this autumn.
“A one-off vaccination programme for young people in the UK following meningitis B outbreaks.”
The decision follows unprecedented outbreaks of MenB in the UK. In March 2026, a cluster of cases in Canterbury, Kent, infected more than 20 people and led to the deaths of two teenagers. Smaller but unusual clusters also occurred in Weymouth, Dorset, and Reading, Berkshire. Together, these outbreaks killed three young people, prompting health officials to act. Health Secretary James Murray said the clusters “indicate a possible change to the way MenB affects people” and that the programme is a precaution while evidence is assessed.
For UK readers, the practical impact is clear: if you are a Year 13 student (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008) or an under-25 starting university for the first time this autumn, you are eligible for a free NHS vaccine. The first dose will be available from 20 July 2026, with the second in August or September if needed. The vaccine is given through community pharmacies, and you do not need to visit the same pharmacy for both doses. Year 13 pupils will be contacted via the NHS app, text, or letter; others can book directly.
Q: Is the meningitis B vaccine free? Yes, for everyone in the eligible groups. The vaccine is offered on the NHS as part of a one-off programme, with no charge. Two doses are needed for full protection.
Q: Who exactly is eligible for the MenB vaccine? You are eligible if you are in Year 13 (or equivalent) this summer and were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, or if you are under 25 and starting university or certain types of residential further education for the first time in autumn 2026, including international students.
Q: How do I get the vaccine? Year 13 students will be contacted directly through the NHS app, text, email, or letter, and can then book appointments at a community pharmacy. Others under 25 starting university can book directly with participating pharmacies. The first dose is offered from 20 July; the second at least 28 days later, with catch-up available in September.
The programme is designed to provide protection before the academic year begins, as MenB cases typically peak around October and November. According to the UK Health Security Agency, the risk of MenB in first-year university students is “substantially greater” than for those not at university, due to close contact in halls of residence and social settings. The vaccine’s protection is thought to last at least six years.
While this is a one-off catch-up programme, health officials say they will continue to monitor the situation. For those who miss the July and August window, second doses can still be given in September. The government has not yet announced whether routine MenB vaccination will be extended to all teenagers, but the current programme is a significant step in protecting young people from a devastating disease.