Figures published today show that, since the vaccination programme began on 20 July, 2026, 246,089 doses of the MenB vaccine have been given to young people.

Dr Amanda Doyle, NHS national director for primary care and community services said: ‘It's fantastic that nearly a quarter of a million young people have already had their first dose of protection thanks to the support of thousands of community pharmacies, but freshers weeks and moving into halls and student houses can significantly increase the risk of exposure to MenB infection, so it's vital to get fully shielded and book a second jab in the coming weeks.'

Students in their first year of university have a risk that is about seven times higher than that of young people of a similar age who do not go to university.

High street pharmacies began offering young people the MenB jab in July.

Two people sadly died in the meningitis outbreak in Kent in March 2026.