
How Serious Is Meningitis B? Symptoms, Warning Signs
A simple guide to meningitis B, the symptoms to look out for, how quickly it can develop,
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Year 13 student this year, or starting university for the first time? You may be eligible for the MenB vaccine free on the NHS
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Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis and blood poisoning (septicaemia). While it is rare, it can progress very quickly and may lead to life-changing complications or be life-threatening.
The MenB vaccine helps protect against the most common strain of meningococcal bacteria causing disease in the UK. It is routinely offered on the NHS to babies, but older children, teenagers, and adults are not routinely covered.
Our private MenB vaccination service provides an option for families and individuals who want additional protection beyond the routine NHS programme.
Safe, effective medications reviewed by our pharmacists
The NHS is offering a free, two-dose MenB vaccine to school leavers and new university & college students for autumn 2026. Check in seconds whether you qualify.
If you're 17–18 (in Year 13 this year) you're eligible regardless of the options below.
Enter your date of birth and select your plans, then tap “Check my eligibility”.
Curated by Rifqa Jibara, Superintendent Pharmacist and Prescriber. GPhC No. 2232122
The MenB vaccine can be given to babies, children, teenagers and adults. It is particularly popular with parents seeking additional protection for their children, as well as university students, young adults and travellers who may be at increased risk of meningococcal disease. If you are unsure whether the MenB vaccine is suitable for you or your child, our pharmacy team can provide advice.
The Kingston Pharmacy is proud to be one of the participating NHS community pharmacies providing the FREE MenB vaccination programme.
We welcome eligible patients from Kingston upon Thames, Surbiton, New Malden, Richmond, Wimbledon, Esher, Chessington and the surrounding areas. You may be eligible if you:
Are 17 to 25 years old
Are starting university for the first time in England
Are starting residential further education for the first time
Have not previously received a MenB vaccine through the routine childhood immunisation programme
Some international students starting university in England may also be eligible.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, don’t worry. Our team at The Kingston Pharmacy will be happy to check your eligibility before your appointment and answer any questions you may have.
Yes. The MenB vaccine has been extensively studied and has an excellent safety record. It has been used routinely within the UK childhood vaccination programme for many years and is recommended by healthcare professionals as an effective way to reduce the risk of meningococcal group B disease.
Most side effects are mild and temporary. Common side effects include pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, headache, tiredness, irritability and muscle aches. Serious side effects are extremely rare. Our clinician will discuss possible side effects before vaccination.
The number of MenB vaccine doses required depends on the age at which vaccination starts. Babies generally require multiple doses and booster vaccinations, while older children, teenagers and adults may require only 2 doses, with at least 4 weeks in between the doses. Our clinician will explain the recommended schedule during your appointment.
In many cases, yes. The MenB vaccine can often be administered alongside other travel vaccines and routine vaccinations. However, the timing may vary depending on the vaccines involved, and our clinician will advise on the most appropriate vaccination schedule for you.
No. The MenB vaccine specifically protects against meningococcal group B bacteria. Other vaccines may be required to protect against different causes of meningitis, including the MenACWY vaccine. Our clinician can advise on which meningitis vaccines may be suitable based on your age, health status and travel plans. If you require the Menigitis ACWY for full protection we also offer that at The Kingston Pharmacy.
In many cases, yes. The MenB vaccine can often be administered alongside other travel vaccines and routine protection vaccinations. However, the timing may vary depending on the vaccines involved, and our clinician will advise on the most appropriate vaccination schedule for you.
The MenB vaccine protects against meningococcal group B disease, while the MenACWY vaccine protects against meningococcal groups A, C, W and Y. Depending on your circumstances, you may benefit from one or both vaccines. This is particularly relevant for university students and travellers.
Many students choose to receive the MenB vaccine before starting university because meningococcal disease can spread more easily in environments where people live closely together, such as student halls. Vaccination can provide additional protection during this period of increased exposure.

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