Young people who have received their first MenB vaccination are being encouraged to make sure they complete the course by booking their second dose. With thousands of young people preparing to start university or further education this autumn, NHS Greater Manchester is reminding eligible young people that two doses of the MenB vaccine are needed for protection against meningococcal B (MenB) disease.
Why is the second dose important?
MenB disease is caused by bacteria that can lead to serious illnesses including meningitis and septicaemia. It can develop quickly and, in some cases, can result in life-changing complications or death.
The MenB vaccine programme is particularly important for young people heading into new environments where they may be living and socialising closely with others.
First-year university students have been found to have a higher risk of meningococcal disease than young people of the same age who do not attend university. The bacteria can spread through close or prolonged contact, including kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, and living in shared accommodation.
Dr Manisha Kumar, Chief Clinical Officer at NHS Greater Manchester, said:
“We know that some young people may have felt a sore arm or unwell after their first MenB vaccination and we understand why they may be reluctant to have a second dose.
“However, two doses are needed for protection, so it is really important to complete the course. Any side effects following vaccination are generally mild and short lived, while MenB disease can be extremely serious and can cause life changing illness or death.”
When should you have your second dose?
The second MenB vaccination must be given at least 28 days after the first dose. After the second vaccination, it takes around a further two weeks for the body to build a good level of immunity. This means the complete course takes around six weeks from the first vaccination. If you have already had your first dose, check when your second dose is due and arrange your appointment as soon as you can.
Who is eligible?
The MenB vaccination programme is a one-off, time-limited programme following outbreaks and clusters of MenB disease during 2026.
It is available to:
- Young people born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008.
- People under 25 who are starting university for the first time in autumn 2026.
- People under 25 starting at an eligible further education college for the first time in autumn 2026 and living in further education accommodation.
- Eligible international students starting university in England for the first time.
Postgraduate students and people who have already started higher or further education are not eligible under the first-time entrant criteria.
What side effects might you experience?
Like other vaccinations, the MenB vaccine can cause some temporary side effects. These can include:
- Swelling, redness or tenderness where the vaccine was given.
- A mild fever.
- Nausea.
- Headache.
- Muscle aches.
These side effects are generally mild and short-lived. Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol can help manage symptoms.
If you have concerns about side effects or your vaccination, speak to a healthcare professional.
After your first dose
For young people getting ready to move away for university or start further education, completing the MenB vaccination course is an important step towards protecting yourself.
The first dose is available until 31 December 2026, while second doses are available until 31 March 2027. However, eligible young people are encouraged to receive both doses as early as possible, ideally before starting university or further education.
The vaccine is available through participating community pharmacies. You can book your first or second dose online through the NHS, find a pharmacy offering walk-in vaccinations, or call 119 if you are unable to book online.
If you’ve had your first MenB vaccination, check when your second dose is due and book your appointment. Completing the course helps ensure you have the protection the vaccine is designed to provide.