More than 4,500 young people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have received a Meningitis B vaccination in the first 2 weeks of a new NHS campaign aimed at protecting students before they head to university or college this autumn.
The time-limited programme offers eligible young people 2 doses of the MenB vaccine, which protects against meningococcal group B bacteria – a leading cause of meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning).
The NHS is encouraging those preparing to start university or move into student accommodation to book their vaccinations as soon as possible, as the 2 doses must be given at least 28 days apart to provide protection before the autumn term begins.
The vaccine is available to young people currently in Year 13, undergraduate students starting university for the first time this autumn, and those beginning a further education college course while living in college-provided accommodation, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Among those already vaccinated is 18-year-old Toby Wardle, from Hampshire, who is due to begin studying pharmacology at the University of Southampton in September.
He said getting vaccinated was “quick and easy” and gave him “peace of mind” before moving into halls of residence and meeting new people.
Dr Charlotte Hutchings, Deputy Chief Medical Officer and Vaccinations Lead for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, has said:
“It’s really encouraging that more than 4,500 young people have already come forward for their MenB vaccination in the first 2 weeks of the programme. This is a fantastic start and looking ahead we can see hundreds of others are also booked on.
Article continues below this advertisement “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 2 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.”
MenB bacteria can spread through close contact with an infected person, including kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or prolonged contact such as living in the same household.
The NHS is reminding eligible young people that the MenB vaccine is different from the MenACWY vaccine routinely offered in secondary school. While many teenagers will already have received the MenACWY jab, it does not protect against MenB disease.
Eligible people can receive their first dose until 31st December 2026, with second doses available until 31st March 2027.
Appointments can be booked through the NHS National Booking Service or by attending participating pharmacies offering walk-in vaccinations.
