Health and wellbeing
Parents and carers urged to help young people get lifesaving meningitis vaccine this summer
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Walsall Council Public Health is encouraging parents and carers of eligible teenagers and young adults to make sure they do not miss out on a free MenB vaccination this summer, ahead of starting university or college.
With the summer holidays now underway, families are being reminded to use this time to support young people in booking vaccination appointments and ensure they are protected before the new academic year begins.
Participating community pharmacies across Walsall are now offering the free MenB vaccine, making it easier for eligible young people to get protected close to home before they go to university or college. Appointments are available through the NHS vaccination programme, which aims to protect young people from meningococcal B (MenB), a potentially life-threatening infection that can cause meningitis and sepsis (blood poisoning).
Meningitis can develop quickly. Symptoms include a high temperature, very cold hands and feet, a stiff neck, joint and muscle pain, a severe headache and spots or a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass. Meningitis can be caused by many different types of viruses or bacteria, which are spread through close contact with a person who has them. This includes kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or living in the same home.
Meningitis may lead to serious complications including hearing loss, seizures, problems with movement and co-ordination and problems with memory and concentration. Bacterial meningitis can be fatal.
Young people at greater risk include those heading to residential colleges or university this autumn for the first time, where living and socialising closely with large numbers of new people can increase the spread of the bacteria that causes the disease. First-year university students have a risk around seven times higher than their peers who do not attend university.
Young people eligible for the MenB vaccine include those born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, and those born on or after 21 July 2001 and are starting university or starting at some further education colleges for the first time in autumn 2026 and living at further education accommodation.
Two doses of the vaccine are required, given at least 28 days apart. Summer is the ideal time to start the course before students go to university or college, and to check that they are up to date with other vaccinations too.
The MenACWY vaccine does not protect against MenB. This means that young people who have already had the MenACWY vaccine still need the MenB vaccine to help protect them against MenB disease.
Vaccinations can now be booked by visiting the NHS National Booking Service online or by calling 119. From 20 July 2026, eligible young people can also find a pharmacy near them to get the MenB vaccine.
“ Summer is a busy time for families preparing for the next stage of education, but it's also an important opportunity to make sure young people are protected against serious illnesses.
We are encouraging parents and carers across Walsall to check whether their son, daughter or the young person they care for is eligible and help them book their MenB vaccination as soon as possible. Getting vaccinated now could help prevent a devastating illness and provide reassurance as they prepare to move on to university or college. “
To find out more about meningitis, visit the NHS website.
To find out more about the MenB vaccine for children and young people, visit the NHS website.
