Students Heading to University

Jaydev Varsani – Clinical Prescribing Pharmacist

Heading off to university is a big step. It’s exciting, nerve-wracking, and a brand-new chapter for both students and their parents. While most of the focus is on packing, course prep, and freshers’ week, there’s something equally important to consider before term starts: meningitis protection.

Most students will already have been offered the free meningitis ACWY vaccine as part of the NHS programme, but what many don’t realise is that this does not protect against meningitis B — the most common cause of meningococcal disease in the UK.

That’s where the meningitis B vaccine (Bexsero) comes in.

Why is meningitis B such a concern at university?

University brings together thousands of young people living, studying, and socialising in close quarters. Shared halls, busy lecture theatres, and late-night socials create the ideal conditions for meningococcal bacteria to spread.

Meningitis B is caused by the Neisseria meningitidis group B strain. It can lead to:

• Meningitis (inflammation of the protective lining around the brain and spinal cord)

• Septicaemia (blood poisoning)

Both can be life-threatening, sometimes developing within hours. Even survivors may be left with lasting complications such as hearing loss, memory problems, or limb damage.

Meningitis B vs Meningitis ACWY and C

Many parents ask: “Haven’t they already been vaccinated?”

• Meningitis C: Used to be the main strain in the UK. The C vaccine is no longer routinely given to older teens as group C is now extremely rare.

• Meningitis ACWY: Protects against four strains (A, C, W, Y). It’s offered free to teenagers and students before university.

• Meningitis B (Bexsero): Covers the B strain, which is still the most common cause of meningococcal disease in the UK — particularly in teenagers and young adults.

So, the ACWY jab alone doesn’t cover all the risks.

The Bexsero vaccine – what to expect

At our clinic we use Bexsero, the licensed meningitis B vaccine. For teenagers and adults, it’s given as two doses, spaced 28 days apart, following the official guidance.

The vaccine helps the immune system recognise and fight off meningococcal group B bacteria. While no vaccine can prevent every case, Bexsero provides strong protection against the majority of strains causing disease in the UK.

How long does protection last?

Protection doesn’t last for life, but studies suggest immunity is strong for several years. For students, that’s exactly the window that matters most — the late teens and early twenties, when they are living closely with others and at highest risk.

Why now, before term starts?

• Higher risk at uni: Halls of residence, shared kitchens, and student nights out make meningitis spread more likely.

• Fast disease progression: Symptoms can start like flu but worsen rapidly. Without urgent treatment, meningitis B can be fatal.

• Private vaccine: Unlike ACWY, the meningitis B vaccine isn’t routinely offered to students on the NHS, so many remain unprotected unless they book it privately.

For parents, getting the jab done before term means one less thing to worry about. For students, it’s a small step that could be life-saving.

Symptoms to know

Even with vaccination, it’s crucial to recognise the warning signs of meningitis B:

• Sudden fever

• Severe headache

• Stiff neck

• Sensitivity to bright light

• Limb pain, cold hands and feet

• A blotchy or purple rash that doesn’t fade under pressure (a late and serious sign)

If these symptoms appear, seek urgent medical help immediately – call 999.

Final word for students and parents

Going to university is a huge milestone, but it also comes with new health risks. Vaccination against both meningitis ACWY and meningitis B gives the best possible protection.

At our clinic, we offer the Bexsero vaccine course (2 doses, 28 days apart) in a safe, professional setting. If you or your child are starting university this year, now is the right time to book.

Two injections could protect against one of the fastest and most devastating infections young people face.