Who is this service suitable for?

This service is suitable for: 

• Year 13 students aged 17–18
• people under 25 entering university for the first time
• people under 25 moving into university halls or student accommodation for the first time
• eligible international students under 25 starting their first year at university

This service may not be suitable for anyone who: 

• has had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous MenB vaccine dose or any of its ingredients
• is currently unwell with a high temperature (vaccination should usually be delayed until recovery)

Eligibility criteria apply. Subject to availability in selected stores only. Excludes NI. All services are at the discretion of the pharmacist. Clubcard/app required to earn points.

How to book an appointment

Customers aged 17–18 and born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008 can book via the NHS National Booking Service [https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-a-menb-vaccination-appointment/]. Other eligible customers can ask one of our pharmacists when shopping in-store.

How much does the service cost?

Free for eligible customers.

What to expect from your appointment

You’ll receive a double vaccination at least 28 days apart from a trained Tesco pharmacist in a private consultation room. It will be given in your upper arm, and the appointment will take around 20 minutes.

What is Meningitis B?

Meningococcal B (MenB) disease is a serious bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B. It can lead to meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), which can become life-threatening very quickly.

Common symptoms

Early symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, and a rash that does not fade when pressed. Symptoms can develop rapidly and require urgent medical attention.

How well does the MenB vaccination work?

The MenB vaccine provides strong protection against most strains of meningococcal group B bacteria. While no vaccine can prevent every case of meningococcal disease, vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing serious MenB infection, meningitis and septicaemia.

Can I have a vaccination if I feel unwell?

If you have a high temperature or feel unwell, wait until you're feeling better before having your vaccination.

Are there any side effects from the vaccine?

Most effects following vaccination are mild and short-lived. The most common side effects are:

• pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
• feeling tired
• headache
• muscle or joint aches
• feeling generally unwell or mild fever

Who is at risk?

Meningococcal disease is rare but can become serious very quickly. Babies and young children are at highest risk, but teenagers and young adults also experience higher rates of infection. Living in close-contact settings, such as university accommodation, can increase the risk of meningococcal disease spreading.

Am I eligible for a free NHS vaccination?

The free NHS MenB vaccination is currently available to eligible 17–25 year olds through the NHS catch-up programme, including Year 13 students and young people entering university or residential further education for the first time. Eligibility criteria apply and may change.

Is there anything else I need to know about my appointment?

The vaccination will be given in the upper arm, so it’s helpful to wear short sleeves or loose sleeves that can be rolled up.