Protection against MenB
Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and septicaemia. Some students starting in autumn 2026 can have the vaccination free on the NHS here. Anyone else can have it privately.
- NHS for eligible students
- Private £99
for school leavers and students
Free on the NHS if you’re one of these
The NHS MenB programme for 2026/27. We’ll check eligibility with you before your vaccination.
- School leaversborn between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
- University startersunder 25, starting university for the first time in 2026/27
- Residential further educationunder 25, starting further education in autumn 2026 and living in halls or college accommodation for the first time
Private vaccination
For children, teenagers and adults who aren’t eligible for the NHS programme. We’ll advise how many doses you need for your age.
- Meningitis B vaccinationprivate vaccination£99
Meningitis can start like flu. Fever, a stiff neck, dislike of bright light, drowsiness or a rash that doesn’t fade under a glass need urgent help. Call 999 or go to A&E.
Common questions
Who can have the MenB vaccination free?
On the 2026/27 NHS programme: school leavers born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, and under-25s starting university or residential further education for the first time.
How much is private MenB vaccination?
£99.
How many doses do I need?
It depends on your age. The pharmacist will tell you before your vaccination.
Page last reviewed 7 November 2026 by Nabeel Amirudin (GPhC 2087856), superintendent pharmacist. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Ask our pharmacist about your own situation.