A Level Results Day: young people off to university urged to get MenB vaccine before term starts
As many students celebrate their A Level results today, the NHS in south east London is urging eligible young people to treat getting vaccinated as an important part of preparing for university, alongside sorting accommodation and student finance.
Students heading to university are at increased risk because MenB bacteria can spread through close contact such as kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, and living in shared accommodation.
MenB can cause meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning), becoming life-threatening within hours. Survivors can be left with life-changing disabilities, including amputations, hearing loss and brain damage.
17 and 18-year-olds can book on the NHS website, and other eligible young people should contact a participating pharmacy directly. Anyone who misses getting vaccinated before starting university can still get a first dose before 31 December, with second doses available until 31 March 2027.
The MenB vaccination is available to:
- People born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
- People born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting university for the first time this autumn
- People born on or after 21 July 2001 who are starting at some residential further education colleges for the first time this autumn
Two doses are needed, given at least 28 days apart, for full protection.