Meningitis B is the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in young people
A free NHS MenB vaccine programme is available in 2026 for eligible young people starting university, residential further education, or in the Year 13 age group. Appointments are open at our participating Liverpool pharmacy, which confirms your eligibility before vaccinating. Anywhere else, join the priority list and we'll contact you with local pharmacy appointment updates.
MenB strain coverage
Estimated coverage of circulating MenB strains (UK MATS genotyping, ~66–88%). Vaccination lowers, but doesn't eliminate, risk.
Your MenB timeline
From infant doses to the next NHS top‑up.
- 8 wks1st baby dose
- 16 wks2nd baby dose
- 1 yrBooster
- 5–14Immunity fades
- 15–24Risk peaks
- Uni 2026Top‑up jab
The risk window
Cases peak between 16 and 24.
Meningitis B cases by age group, UK
Indicative distribution of invasive MenB cases by age in the UK; bar heights are relative, not absolute rates. Source: UKHSA invasive meningococcal disease surveillance.
Eligibility
Check if you’re likely to qualify
A quick guide only. Final eligibility is confirmed by the pharmacy before vaccination.
Priority notification
We'll let you know when it's live near you.
Priority list only. No booking is confirmed yet.
Good to know
Common questions
Does this form book my appointment?
No. This is a priority list. We will contact you with local pharmacy appointment information when the next step is ready.
Who is eligible for the free NHS MenB vaccine?
From autumn 2026, the NHS plans to offer MenB to under‑25s starting university who missed the infant programme. Exact eligibility will be confirmed by JCVI/NHS England before bookings open.
I had MenB (Bexsero) as a baby, do I still need it?
Likely yes. Bexsero induces protein‑based, antibody‑mediated immunity that wanes within a few years; serum bactericidal antibody (hSBA) titres typically fall below protective thresholds well before adolescence, and there is no proven impact on nasopharyngeal carriage. A pharmacist will review your records.
How many doses and how long until I'm protected?
For adolescents, Bexsero is 2 doses given at least 1 month apart. Meaningful protection builds 1–2 weeks after dose 2; you are not protected during the interval between doses.
Is it safe?
Bexsero has been on the routine UK infant schedule since September 2015. Common reactions are injection‑site pain, fever (more frequent in infants when co‑administered, which is why prophylactic paracetamol is advised under 1 year), headache and malaise. Serious adverse events are rare.
Does it cover every MenB strain?
No vaccine does. Bexsero targets 4 surface antigens (fHbp, NHBA, NadA, PorA 1.4); UK MATS/genotyping estimates coverage of roughly 66–88% of circulating MenB strains, so vaccination lowers, but does not eliminate, risk.
Is MenB the same as MenACWY?
No. MenB and MenACWY protect against different meningococcal groups. If you are not sure which vaccines you have had, ask the pharmacy.
Can a parent or guardian join the list?
Yes, if they have the young person's permission and use contact details that can be used for MenB updates. The pharmacy still confirms eligibility before vaccination.
What should I bring if I'm offered an appointment?
The pharmacy may ask for proof of age and university or college offer/enrolment evidence. Bring any vaccination record you already have if available.
Why do you ask for postcode?
Postcode helps us identify relevant local pharmacy appointment updates. It is not used to confirm clinical eligibility.
How do you use my data?
To send you MenB programme updates and, with your consent, to share your details with GPhC-registered pharmacies near you so they can offer your vaccination. MenB only, never sold. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Next step
Be first to book when it's free.
Join the list. We'll only email about the MenB programme.