Health authorities are initiating a broad vaccination campaign focused on approximately one million teenagers and young adults in response to rising concerns about meningitis B infections. The programme is designed to protect those identified as facing the greatest immediate risk from the disease.
Meningitis is an infection affecting the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While it can develop in individuals of any age, it occurs most frequently in babies, young children, teenagers, and young adults. The condition can prove serious without prompt treatment. Infections may be caused by bacteria or viruses, with bacterial meningitis being rarer but more severe than its viral counterpart. Bacterial meningitis can lead to blood poisoning, sepsis, and brain damage. Meningitis B accounts for the majority of severe meningococcal disease cases in the UK. According to official data, there were 378 cases of invasive meningococcal disease in the period 2024-2025.
Symptoms can emerge rapidly and include a rash unresponsive to glass pressure, sudden high fever, severe headaches, stiff neck, vomiting, diarrhea, joint and muscle pain, light sensitivity, cold extremities, seizures, confusion, and extreme drowsiness. Two primary vaccines provide protection against major meningitis causes: the MenACWY vaccine, covering four bacterial groups and offered to 14-year-olds, and the MenB vaccine, which protects against meningococcal group B and is recommended for infants. Several other vaccines also offer protection as meningitis can result from complications of other infections.
The bacteria spread through saliva exchange via coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing items like vapes and drinks, requiring close personal contact. Some individuals carry the bacteria asymptomatically while remaining contagious. The targeted vaccination programme this summer will offer two free vaccine doses on the NHS to Year 13 pupils and individuals under 25 beginning university or residential further education in autumn. Disease peaks typically occur during October to November annually. Individuals experiencing meningitis or sepsis symptoms should seek immediate emergency care.
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