August 07, 2026 - 229 views
More than 3,000 young people across North Wales have already received protection against meningitis B following the launch of a targeted vaccination campaign two weeks ago.
The MenB vaccine is being offered this summer to 17 and 18-year-olds born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008, as well as young people aged up to 25 who are due to begin their first university or residential college course later this year.
Now, walk-in vaccination clinics are being opened across North Wales to make it easier for eligible young people who have not yet received their first dose to come forward.
No appointment is needed at the walk-in clinics.
Two doses of the MenB vaccine are required for full protection, with a second appointment usually scheduled around four weeks after the first dose.
Young people who have missed other recommended vaccinations will also have the opportunity to catch up at the clinics.
The precautionary campaign was announced by the Welsh Government last month following a MenB outbreak in Kent earlier this year, in which 21 people became ill and two young people sadly died.
The campaign is aimed at those considered to be at increased risk, particularly teenagers and young adults who may spend time in close-contact settings such as universities and residential colleges.
Seventeen and 18-year-olds eligible for the programme were sent invitation letters in early July. Anyone who was unable to attend their appointment, or who did not receive a letter, can contact the health board or attend a walk-in clinic.
Young people aged 18 to 25 who are starting their first year at university or residential college this autumn can also receive the vaccine. They should bring evidence that they are due to begin their first year, such as an offer or provisional offer letter.
The health board is advising eligible young people not to contact their GP surgery or school immunisation teams for the MenB vaccine, as these services will not be able to provide it as part of this targeted programme.
The campaign will run for a limited period, with all first doses needing to be given by 31 December.
Young people and families are also being urged to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of meningitis and sepsis.
Both conditions can progress rapidly from apparently mild symptoms to severe illness. Babies, young children, teenagers and young adults – particularly those in close-contact environments such as colleges and universities – are among those at greater risk.
The MenB vaccination programme is in addition to routine vaccination against other strains of meningitis. The MenACWY vaccine is normally offered to children in Year 9 through school-based clinics.
For enquiries or to arrange a vaccination appointment for eligible 18 to 25-year-olds, the Vaccination Contact Centre can be contacted on 03000 840004, from 9.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday.
The health board says the latest campaign is an important opportunity for eligible young people to strengthen their protection against a serious and potentially life-threatening infection.
