More than 12,000 young people in North West vaccinated against MenB in first month

Wednesday, 12 August 2026

More than 12,000 young people across the North West have received their free Meningitis B (MenB) vaccination as we approach the end of the first month of the programme, demonstrating strong demand for protection against the potentially life-threatening disease.

Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, there are several types, and meningitis B can be very serious. It can affect anyone, but is most common in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults. Babies have been offered a vaccine against MenB since 2015, which means teenagers and young adults over the age of 11 have not received this jab.

With students picking up A-level results this week, and making decisions about which universities they go to, it is important they protect themselves ahead of the new academic year. 

More than 1,000 community pharmacies in the North West have signed up to deliver the programme, helping ensure eligible young people can access the vaccine close to where they live ahead of starting university or college. 

The one-off NHS vaccination programme launched on 20 July and offers the vaccine to:

  • people born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008;
  • people born on or after 21 July 2001 and starting university for the first time this autumn;
  • people born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting in some residential further education colleges for the first time this autumn.

Eligible young people require two doses of the vaccine, given at least 28 days apart, for maximum protection. For those who got vaccinated in the first week of the programme, second doses are due now.    

Dr Paula Cowan, GP and Medical Director for Primary Care, Community and Neighbourhoods for NHS England in the North West said:

Information:

"We are delighted by the response to the programme so far. Seeing more than 12,000 young people across the North West take up the offer of a free MenB vaccination in the first month shows just how seriously they are taking the threat of meningitis and the importance of protecting themselves before heading off to university or college.

"The important message is that there are plenty of appointments available and if you're eligible and haven't yet booked, now is the perfect time to come forward. Don't leave it until the last minute – getting your first dose now will help ensure you can receive both doses before starting university or college this autumn."

MenB disease can develop rapidly and can be life-threatening. Young people starting university are at increased risk because the bacteria can spread through close and prolonged contact, including living and socialising in shared accommodation.

The NHS is encouraging all eligible young people who have not yet booked to take advantage of the free offer and get protected before the start of the new academic year. 17 to 18-year-olds can book via the NHS National Booking Service for appointments at community pharmacies.

All other eligible people are being encouraged to contact a participating pharmacy directly to book an appointment.