More than 4,500 young people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have already come forward for a new NHS vaccination programme offering protection against meningitis B in the first two weeks of the drive.
The strong early uptake comes as young people preparing to start university or move into student accommodation this autumn are encouraged to book their vaccinations as soon as possible to ensure they're protected before the start of the autumn term.
The time-limited programme offers eligible young people two doses of the MenB vaccine, helping protect against meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria, which can cause life-threatening illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning).
People eligible for the vaccine include:
- Young people currently in Year 13 (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008).
- Undergraduate students born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting university for the first time in autumn 2026.
- People born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting a further education (FE) college course for the first time in autumn 2026 and will be living in college-provided accommodation, such as halls of residence.
Toby Wardle, 18, from Hampshire, who is hoping to study pharmacology at the University of Southampton, from September, has already received his first MenB vaccination.
He said: "I'm moving away to university in September, so when I found out I was eligible for the MenB vaccine I booked it straight away. It was quick and easy, and it gives me peace of mind knowing I'll have that extra protection before I move into halls and meet lots of new people. I'd definitely encourage anyone who's eligible to get it done."
Young people who are eligible can use the National Booking Service to pre-book an appointment or find out which pharmacies are available for walk-in appointments.
The MenB bacteria can spread through close contact with an infected person, including kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or prolonged close contact such as living in the same household.
Dr Charlotte Hutchings, Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Vaccinations Lead for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: "It's really encouraging that more than 4,500 young people have already come forward for their MenB vaccination in the first two weeks of the programme. This is a fantastic start and looking ahead we can see hundreds of others are also booked on.
"Starting university or college is an exciting time, but it also means living, studying and socialising closely with lots of new people. Vaccination is the best way to help protect yourself against MenB disease, which, although rare, can become life-threatening very quickly. As two doses are needed at least 28 days apart, I'd encourage everyone who's eligible to book now so they're fully protected before the autumn term begins."
Two doses of the vaccine are needed for protection at least 28 days apart. Booking now gives eligible young people enough time to have both doses before they pack their bags for university or college, and before meningitis cases typically begin to rise in the autumn.
The MenB vaccine is different from the MenACWY vaccine routinely offered to teenagers in secondary school. While many young people will already have received the MenACWY vaccine, this does not protect against MenB disease, making this additional vaccine important for those who are eligible.
Eligible people can receive their first dose until 31 December 2026, with second doses available until 31 March 2027.
For more information about the MenB vaccination programme, eligibility and how to get vaccinated, visit NHS.uk page for vaccinations or ring the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Vaccination Helpline on 0300 561 0018, Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.
