Meningococcal B Vaccination Roll-Out for New International Students This Autumn
The UK has launched a targeted meningococcal B vaccination programme for international students arriving at university in Autumn 2026. The two-dose vaccine protects against a life-threatening bacterial infection that clusters among young people starting university.
Autumn 2026 marks the first year of a dedicated meningococcal B (MenB) vaccination programme for international students entering UK universities or further education halls of residence for the first time. The programme responds to elevated MenB disease clusters recorded in 2026, with cases typically peaking in October and November among new student populations.
Eligibility and Timeline
The vaccine is available to:
- Undergraduates attending university for the first time in Autumn 2026
- Students entering halls of residence or further education accommodation for the first time in Autumn 2026
- Must be under 25 years old (25th birthday after 31 December 2026)
The vaccination requires two doses, with the second dose given at least four weeks after the first, followed by another two weeks to build immunity. Students should arrange their first dose immediately upon arrival.
What This Means for You
If you are an international student starting university in the UK in September or October 2026, contact your university's health centre or local GP within your first week to book your MenB vaccination. There is no cost to you if you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your student visa. Your institution should provide information about where to register with a GP and access vaccination services locally. Early booking is important, as demand may be high across new student populations during peak enrolment periods.
Sources
Independent app, not a government. General information, not advice. The official source:
