Getting university-ready: don't forget your MenB vaccination
For many young people, going to university is exciting. There is a lot to plan, from finding somewhere to live to buying what you need. However, local NHS teams are encouraging students and their families to add one more important item to their checklist: the MenB vaccination.
MenB is a rare but serious illness that can cause meningitis and septicaemia. It can make people very ill very quickly and can sometimes be life-threatening. Young people heading to university may be at greater risk because university often involves living, studying and socialising in close contact with lots of new people.
Eighteen-year-old Shropshire student Jake Hopkins recently chose to get vaccinated before starting university and is encouraging others to do the same.
“Getting ready for university means there’s lots to think about, but making sure I was vaccinated was a really straightforward part of my preparations,” Jake said.
“You spend ages sorting out where you’re going to live and what to pack. Booking my vaccination only took a few minutes, and knowing I’m taking steps to protect myself before starting university is definitely worth it.”
Jake had his vaccine at Wellington Pharmacy. He hopes his story will encourage other students to get theirs too.
“If you’re heading to university this September, I’d encourage you to check you’re up to date with your vaccinations before you go,” he said. “I’d also say don’t leave it until the last minute.”
The free MenB vaccine is available to some young people. This includes 17- and 18-year-olds in Year 13 who were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008. It is also available to some people aged 24 or under who are starting university for the first time this autumn. You need two doses of the vaccine. They must be given at least four weeks apart. If you are eligible, it is important to book as soon as you can, so you have time to get both doses.
The first dose must be given by 31 December 2026. The second and final dose must be given by 31 March 2027.
Jake’s message to other students is simple: while you are packing your bags and getting ready to meet new people, take a few minutes to check your vaccinations too. It could be one of the most important things on your university checklist.
To book your MenB vaccine, visit: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-a-menb-vaccination-appointment/
For more information about meningitis, visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/
For more information about NHS vaccinations and when to have them, visit: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-when-to-have-them/
