House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Meningitis B Update
15 June 2026 · Department of Health and Social Care
Proposed by Sharon Hodgson Lab Washington and Sunderland West
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The minister is announcing a targeted meningococcal group B (MenB) immunisation programme for this autumn.
- The programme offers a one-off MenB vaccination to Year 13 students in England and Wales starting higher education or residential further education for the first time in 2026/2027.
- International students are encouraged to receive their first dose before travelling to ensure both doses are completed by October and November.
Issue summary
The minister is announcing a targeted meningococcal group B (MenB) immunisation programme for this autumn.
Action requested
The minister is offering a one-off MenB vaccination programme to Year 13 students in England and Wales, those starting higher education or residential further education settings for the first time in the 2026/2027 academic year. International students are encouraged to have at least their first dose before travelling to ensure both doses can be received by October and November.
Key facts
- The MenB vaccine is highly effective with an estimated effectiveness of between 85-95%.
- Year 13 age group in England and Wales (born from 1st September 2007 to 31st August 2008) will be eligible for vaccination.
- People under 25 years attending higher education or living at some residential further education settings for the first time in the 2026/2027 academic year are also eligible.
- The programme is available across all four UK nations.