Time running out for young people to receive meningitis B vaccines in UK
Summary
The UK is offering a one-time MenB vaccination programme to eligible young people after outbreaks earlier this year caused three deaths. By the latest figures, 28.2% of eligible 18- and 19-year-olds had received a first dose, and the deadline for starting the course is 31 December 2026.Key Facts
- Outbreaks of meningitis B in Kent, with clusters of cases in Dorset and Berkshire, caused three deaths earlier this year.
- The government announced the time-limited vaccination programme in June.
- The programme offers two doses of a vaccine that protects against most strains of MenB bacteria.
- Only 28.2% of eligible 18- and 19-year-olds had received a first dose, according to UK Health Security Agency figures.
- The first dose must be given by 31 December 2026, and the second dose is available until 31 March 2027.
- The doses must be given at least 28 days apart.
- Those born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 are eligible, as are people under 25 who started university or residential further education for the first time this autumn.
- UKHSA says first-year students face about seven times the risk of MenB infection compared with peers who do not attend university.
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