Dear Colleague,
A new one off NHS vaccination programme is now available to help protect eligible young people against meningococcal B (MenB) disease ahead of the 2026/27 academic year.
The programme will be delivered by participating community pharmacies and does not require any action from GP practices. To support patient enquiries, please signpost patients to our website, where they can find eligibility information, frequently asked questions and a list of participating pharmacies by area.
View participating community pharmacies offering the MenB vaccine.
Why the vaccine is being offered
MenB disease is rare but can cause life-threatening meningitis and septicaemia. Young people starting university are at increased risk due to close contact in shared accommodation and social settings.
The programme has been introduced following recent outbreaks and aims to provide protection to those at highest risk before they begin university or residential further education.
Eligibility
The programme is available to:
- Year 13 students (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008)
- Young people under 25 starting university for the first time in autumn 2026
- Young people under 25 starting residential further education for the first time in autumn 2026
Two doses of the MenB vaccine are required, given at least four weeks apart.
Invitations and pharmacy provision
Participating community pharmacies across Essex are delivering the programme.
Eligible patients do not need to wait for an invitation before booking.
Vaccinations can be booked through the National Booking Service, andeligible young people may also be contacted by the NHS through the NHS App, text message, email or letter.
Thank you for your continued support in promoting vaccination and helping eligible young people access this important programme.
Kind regards
NHS Essex