Meningitis B vaccine to be offered to a million young people

A one-off Meningitis B vaccination programme will be offered to one million young people in England, Wales, and Scotland to address the UK’s largest and fastest-growing outbreak in Kent this year, alongside smaller clusters in Weymouth, Dorset, and Reading, Berkshire. The initiative targets pupils in their final year of secondary school and those aged 18–25 starting university or residential further education in autumn 2026, as they face higher risk due to increased social mixing and shared living spaces. The two-dose vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart, will be provided free through community pharmacies. In England, vaccinations begin in July and August, with Year 13 pupils contacted via NHS app, text, email, or letter, while under-25s starting university can book directly with pharmacies. International students under 25 should receive their first dose before arriving in the UK, per UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) guidance. Wales and Scotland will run similar programmes, with Wales offering vaccinations from July to December and Scotland starting in July. The move follows concerns over changing patterns of Meningitis B, which can cause life-threatening illness. Aaron Mills, an 18-year-old from Worcestershire, died from the disease in January 2026 despite having received a different meningitis vaccine (MenACWY), highlighting the need for broader protection. Health Secretary James Murray stated that while evidence is assessed, the programme aims to safeguard those at highest immediate risk. Meningitis B spreads through close contact, such as kissing, sharing vapes, or living in shared accommodation. Symptoms include flu-like illness progressing to severe headaches, seizures, or unresponsiveness. The UKHSA emphasizes the urgency of vaccination for young adults transitioning to university or independent living, where social mixing increases exposure risks. Northern Ireland will introduce a similar programme in due course, aligning with the broader UK strategy. The initiative aims to reduce cases by targeting the most vulnerable groups before the autumn term begins.