Protect yourself before starting university or residential college
Swift Pharmacy is offering the NHS Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine to eligible young people as part of the national vaccination programme.
The MenB vaccine helps protect against meningococcal group B bacteria, which can cause serious illnesses including meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). These infections can develop quickly and become life-threatening.
If you’re eligible, you can book your appointment online at a time that suits you.
Book your MenB vaccination today.
Who is eligible?
You may be eligible for a free NHS MenB vaccination if you are either:
Year 13 Students (2025/26)
You were born between:
1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
You are eligible regardless of whether you are planning to attend university.
First-time Higher or Further Education Entrants
You were born on or after 21 July 2001 and you will be:
• Starting an undergraduate university course for the first time in Autumn 2026, or
• Living in residential Further Education accommodation for the first time.
You’ll need to bring evidence of your place at your appointment, such as:
• UCAS offer confirmation
• University offer email
• College acceptance letter
• Screenshot from your UCAS Hub showing your offer
These eligibility criteria are set by the NHS Patient Group Direction (PGD).
Why is the vaccine important?
Young adults moving into shared accommodation are at an increased risk of meningococcal disease because of close contact with lots of new people.
Although meningitis is uncommon, it can become serious very quickly. Vaccination is the best way to help protect yourself before starting university or college
Why is the vaccine important?
The vaccination course consists of:
• 2 doses
• The second dose is given at least 28 days after the first
For the best protection, both doses should be completed before or as early as possible during your first term.
What happens at my appointment?
Your appointment will usually take around 15 minutes. Our pharmacist will:
• Check your eligibility
• Confirm your medical history
• Answer any questions you may have
• Administer the vaccine
• Advise you on any expected side effects
Possible side effects
Most people experience only mild side effects, which may include:
• Pain or tenderness at the injection site
• Redness or swelling
• Headache
• Feeling tired
• Muscle aches
• Mild Fever
These symptoms normally settle within a few days.
Before you book
Please ensure that:
• You meet the NHS eligibility criteria.
• If you’re attending university or residential college for the first time, you bring proof of your offer.
• You are feeling well on the day of your appointment.
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, please contact Swift Pharmacy before booking.
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