The UK government announced a vaccination programme starting in late July 2026 to offer two doses of the meningitis B vaccine, Bexsero, to teenagers finishing year 13 and young people under 25 entering university or residential further education for the first time this autumn [1, 2].

The vaccination targets those born between September 1, 2007, and August 31, 2008. Around 1 million young people are eligible for the programme [1, 2]. The vaccine is given in two doses at least 28 days apart and protects against most strains of the meningococcal B bacteria [1, 2].

The programme follows unprecedented meningitis B outbreaks earlier this year, including large clusters in Kent, Dorset, and Berkshire, where three young people died. The Kent outbreak was the largest and fastest growing meningitis B outbreak ever seen in the UK and was linked to a nightclub super-spreading event [1, 2].

James Murray, UK Health Secretary, said "The Kent outbreak and recent clusters indicate a possible change to the way MenB affects people. While we assess the latest evidence, we are acting now to help protect young people at highest immediate risk as they enter university and residential colleges this autumn" [1]. He urged eligible students to get vaccinated in July and August, saying the doses would give "peace of mind as they head off to continue their studies" [1].

Shamez Ladhani, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, described 2026 as "an unusual year" due to "three rather unusual clusters of MenB disease, where we have seen far more cases than we would have expected that are clustering together in one region." He warned that "we might start seeing more meningococcal disease activity in the coming years" [2].

NHS England's Director of Vaccination, Caroline Temmink, said eligible individuals would be contacted via the NHS app, text, and email. New university entrants under 25 can book appointments at pharmacies directly [1].

Meningococcal B bacteria can be carried harmlessly by many people but may cause serious meningitis or blood poisoning in some. The UK already offers the MenB vaccine to babies and a MenACWY catch-up vaccine for those under 25 [1, 2].

The vaccination aims to reduce the risk of serious illness and prevent larger outbreaks, especially since invasive meningococcal disease cases typically peak in October and November each year [1]. The programme launch in late July 2026 gives eligible young people time to get both doses before the peak season.