The MenACWY and MenB vaccines help protect against different strains of bacteria that can cause serious illnesses, including meningitis and sepsis.

MenACWY Vaccine:

The MenACWY vaccine is routinely offered to teenagers in school at around 14 years of age. However, it can be given up to the age of 25 if it has been missed.

More information: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/menacwy-vaccine/

MenB Vaccine:

The MenB vaccine was introduced into the UK childhood immunisation schedule in September 2015. It is given to babies at:

• 8 weeks
• 12 weeks
• 1 year (booster)

MenB vaccination is also available for individuals with specific medical conditions or in certain at-risk groups, including:

• Individuals with underlying conditions that increase the risk of meningococcal infection (e.g. asplenia, splenic dysfunction, or complement disorders)
• Individuals identified as close contacts of a confirmed meningococcal case
• From August 2025, a targeted UK programme will offer MenB vaccination to gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) at high risk of gonorrhoea

More information: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/menb-vaccine-for-children/

Published: Mar 17, 2026