Meningitis B (MenB) is a very serious, life-threatening illness. It affects the brain and spinal cord, and it can also cause blood poisoning (sepsis).
Teenagers and young adults are at a higher risk of catching this illness. This is especially true when they are mixing closely with lots of new people, like when they move into student housing or start university.
To keep young people safe, a new, one-off MenB vaccination programme has launched across Northern Ireland.
Who Can Get the Free MenB Vaccine
You can get this free vaccine in Northern Ireland if you are in either of these groups:
- Born between 2 July 2007 and 1 July 2008: This is the school Year 14 age group.
- Starting university or college: Anyone up to 25 years of age who is starting university or a residential college for the first time this autumn. This includes international students.
If you had a meningitis vaccine at school (the MenACWY vaccine), please note that it does not protect you against the “B” strain. You still need this new MenB vaccine to be fully protected.
How the Vaccine is Given
You need two separate doses of the vaccine to get full protection.
- First dose: This is available from mid-to-late July 2026
- Second dose: You must get this dose at least four weeks after your first one.
Because it takes a few weeks for your body to build up protection, you should get your first dose as soon as possible. This ensures you are protected before the academic term begins in the autumn.
How to Get Your Vaccine
How you get your vaccine depends on your eligibility group:
Year 14 School Group
If you are in the Year 14 age group (born between 2 July 2007 and 1 July 2008), you will be invited for your vaccination. Please wait to be contacted by your healthcare team.
New University and College Students
If you are under 25 and starting higher education or residential further education for the first time, you are encouraged to seek vaccination. Please contact your GP surgery to arrange an appointment.
If you are moving away to university, try to get both doses from your home GP practice before you leave. If you cannot do this, you should register with a GP near your university as soon as you arrive and ask them for the vaccine.
Remember to bring proof of your university or college place (such as your UCAS confirmation email or letter) to your appointment.
Find Out More
Please use the links below to read more about the vaccine, check if you are eligible, and learn the symptoms of meningitis.