Eligible young people across Birmingham, the Black Country and Solihull are being urged to protect themselves against meningitis by getting the free MenB vaccine before heading to university or college this autumn.
The NHS is encouraging those eligible to come forward now, with appointments available through participating community pharmacies and additional on-site vaccination clinics planned at universities across the region during Freshers' Week, making it even easier for students to get protected.
The MenB vaccine protects against meningococcal B (MenB), a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and sepsis (blood poisoning). The disease can develop rapidly and may result in serious complications including hearing loss, seizures, problems with movement and coordination, memory difficulties and, in some cases, death.
Young people are at greater risk when they start university or move into student accommodation, where living, studying and socialising closely with large groups of new people increases the spread of the bacteria that causes the disease.
The NHS is encouraging anyone eligible to come forward as soon as possible, as two doses of the vaccine are needed, given at least 28 days apart. Summer is the ideal time to begin the course to ensure the best possible protection before the start of term.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nurse, Birmingham, Black Country and Solihull ICB cluster, said: "Starting university is an exciting milestone, but it also brings an increased risk of infections such as meningococcal B because students often live and socialise closely with lots of new people.
"MenB disease can become life-threatening within hours, so vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself. We strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated before they leave home for university or college.
"We're making it as easy as possible by offering appointments through participating community pharmacies and by taking vaccination clinics directly onto university campuses during Freshers' Week, so students have every opportunity to get protected."
Symptoms of meningitis can include:
- a high temperature
- very cold hands and feet
- a stiff neck
- severe headache
- joint and muscle pain
- drowsiness or confusion
- spots or a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass.
Meningitis is spread through close contact with someone carrying the bacteria, including kissing, sharing drinks, sharing vapes or living in the same household.
The MenB vaccine is available to the following up until 31 December 2026:
- young people born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008; and
- those born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting university or certain further education colleges for the first time in autumn 2026 and will be living in student accommodation.
Many young people will already have received the MenACWY vaccine while at school. However, this vaccine does not protect against MenB, so eligible students should still come forward for the MenB vaccine.
Eligible young people can book their vaccination through the NHS National Booking Service online or by calling 119, they can also find a pharmacy near them to get the MenB vaccine. and should look out for on-campus NHS vaccination clinics taking place at universities across Birmingham, the Black Country and Solihull during Freshers' Week.
Anyone unsure whether they are eligible should speak to their GP practice or a participating community pharmacy.
