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Community pharmacies in England are set to provide a meningitis B vaccination service in a one-off vaccination programme to protect students ahead of the new academic year this autumn.

MenB vaccination will be available to people who complete year 13 of education in the summer of 2026 (born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008) as well as people aged under 25 years starting university or moving into residential further education settings for the first time in autumn 2026. 

Eligible students will need two doses. The first dose will be offered from July and the second dose should be administered at least 28 days later and ideally before term starts in September 2026.

Secretary of State for Health and Social Care James Murray 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.

“By offering two doses of the jabs ahead of the academic year, we will help reduce the risk of serious illness and larger outbreaks of this horrendous disease.

“I urge all those students who are eligible to come forward for their two doses in July and August, to give them peace of mind as they head off to continue their studies.”

Janet Morrison, chief executive of Community Pharmacy England said: “The meningococcal B vaccination programme will be an important step in protecting young people this summer and it is no surprise that the NHS and Government are looking to community pharmacy to help; pharmacies have a strong track-record in making sure vaccinations get to the people who need them most.

“Negotiations about pharmacy’s involvement are ongoing, but we hope to be in a position to share further details with pharmacy owners very soon.”

Malcolm Harrison, chief executive of the Company Chemists' Association, said: “Recent meningitis outbreaks have highlighted the importance of vaccinations in protecting the public from serious diseases.

"The announcement shows the crucial role community pharmacies play in delivering convenient and accessible vaccination services to help curb outbreaks.

"This campaign will provide peace of mind to students and parents ahead of the new academic year, ensuring that students can start university with greater protection against a serious and potentially life-threatening disease."