UK Health Advisers Now Recommend Meningitis B Vaccines for Teenagers

On 16 July 2026, UK health advisers recommended teenagers get meningitis B vaccines free on the NHS, reversing a March decision. The change follows Kent outbreaks that killed two teenagers, including 18-year-old Juliette Kenny. The plan — covering booster shots, catch-up doses, and a programme for older students starting 20 July — needs government approval. Each UK nation will fund its own programme separately.