NewsHealthNHSThe health service is offering advice on how to get the 'best protection'14:33, 20 Jul 2026The NHS has issued a reminder to millions of young people born between 2001 and 2008 to check if they need protection against a wave of "serious illnesses". It comes as people aged between 17 and 25 could be entering the "second-highest risk window" for contracting these diseases.‌Posting on social media, the NHS said: "If you're eligible, you can now get your free MenB vaccine. MenB can cause serious illnesses like meningitis and septicaemia. You'll need two doses, given at least four weeks apart, for the best protection. Search 'NHS MenB vaccine' to check if you're eligible and learn how to book."‌What is the MenB vaccine? Who is eligible?The MenB vaccine helps protect children against bacterial infections caused by meningococcal group B bacteria (MenB). These infections can cause serious illnesses, including meningitis (an infection in the brain and spinal cord), septicaemia (blood poisoning) and sepsis (a life-threatening reaction to an infection).‌The vaccine is also offered separately to help stop the spread of gonorrhoea. This version of the vaccine is not age-restricted - more information is available here.Content cannot be displayed without consentChildren are offered three doses of the MenB vaccine as part of the NHS vaccination schedule before their first birthday. But by the time people reach adulthood, the initial protection will have faded. The NHS website says that the MenB vaccine is offered to young people who are:‌Aged 17 to 18 - born between September 1, 2007 and August 31, 2008Under 25 and starting university or moving into residential further education for the first time (born on or after July 21, 2001)People in this age range are offered this vaccine because they are entering the second-highest risk window of their lives for contracting bacterial meningitis, according to the University of Reading. To get the free vaccination, find a pharmacy that offers MenB vaccination for young people.Article continues belowAre there any side effects of the MenB vaccine?Like all medicines, the MenB vaccine can cause side effects, but not everyone will get them. According to the NHS, common complaints after getting the vaccine include:swelling or pain where the injection was givena high temperaturefeeling tired or irritableloss of appetitediarrhoeaThese side effects usually get better within a few days. More serious side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction, are very rare and the person who vaccinates you will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌HealthNHSMeningitisStudentsEducationExpert Advice