Young people encouraged to get MenB vaccine before heading to university
Young people heading to university this autumn can now book an appointment for the MenB vaccination. Appointments can be booked at high street pharmacies across south east London through the NHS website, with vaccinations available from Monday 20 July.
Meningococcal B (MenB) can cause serious illnesses including inflammation of the lining of the brain and sepsis (blood poisoning). The vaccination programme has been introduced following recent meningococcal disease outbreaks and aims to help protect those at greatest risk before the start of the new academic year.
The MenB vaccine is being offered to 17 and 18-year-olds currently in their final year of sixth form, as well as students under the age of 25 who are moving to residential colleges or university for the first time this autumn.
For the best protection, young people will need two doses of the vaccine. The first dose will be available from July, with the second dose offered from August.
Eligible young people can book an appointment on the NHS website or visit participating pharmacies, where walk-in appointments are also available.
More information about the MenB vaccine, including eligibility and how to book, is available on the NHS website.