Free Meningitis B Vaccine for new students
Starting university this September? Find out if you’re eligible for a free Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine on campus and how to book.
8 September 2026
Protect yourself against meningitis with a free MenB vaccine
Starting university means meeting and living alongside people from across the UK and around the world. This can increase your risk of MenB, so vaccination is an important way to protect yourself.
A free MenB vaccination bus will be on campus this September for eligible students.
Who can get the vaccine?
You may be eligible if you:
- were born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008
- were born on or after 21 July 2001 and are starting undergraduate study for the first time in autumn 2026
You need two doses of the MenB vaccine, at least 28 days apart, for full protection.
If you’ve already had your first dose, you may be able to get your second dose on campus.
Already had the MenACWY vaccine? MenACWY doesn’t protect against MenB, so you may still be eligible for the MenB vaccination.
Where and when?
- Helix Square (outside the Frederick Douglass Centre): 16 to 18 September
- Boiler House: 19 to 25 September, excluding 23 September
How to book your free MenB vaccine:
- Visit the NHS MenB vaccination booking page and select Book an appointment
- Enter your personal details
- Enter postcode NE4 5TG for Helix Square or NE1 7RU for Boiler House
- Select Newcastle University Bus Helix Square or Newcastle University Bus Boiler House, depending on your preferred location
- Bring a form of ID and your NHS Number (if known) to your appointment
Know the signs and symptoms:
Meningitis can develop quickly, so it’s also important to know the signs and symptoms.
Common symptoms can include:
- a high fever
- a rash that doesn't fade when you press a glass against it
- a stiff neck
- a severe headache
- feeling sleepy
- confusion
Not everyone will experience all of these symptoms. Read the NHS guidance on meningitis for the full list of symptoms, risks, and advice on what to do.
Further details can be found on the Student Wellbeing website.