MenB Vaccine for Students in Liverpool
Study without worry. Get your NHS MenB vaccine.
Attending university puts you in close contact with thousands of people from across the UK and beyond – making it one of the highest-risk periods in your life for meningitis B.
Our London Road pharmacy is conveniently located for students at the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), and we offer the MenB vaccine on the NHS for eligible patients – at no cost to you.
Don’t put it off. Meningitis B can develop rapidly and become life-threatening within hours.
What is Meningitis B?
Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B. It affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord and can also cause septicaemia which is equally life-threatening.
In the UK, meningitis B is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis, and young people aged 15 to 24 are one of the highest-risk groups. Students living in university halls or shared accommodation are at particular risk because the bacteria spread easily through close contact – coughing, sneezing and sharing drinks or cigarettes.
Even with prompt treatment, meningitis B can cause devastating complications including:
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Permanent brain damage
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Hearing loss
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Loss of limbs due to septicaemia
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Long-term neurological problems
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Death - in approximately 1 in 10 cases
If you're unsure whether you qualify for an NHS vaccine, simply speak to one of our pharmacists - we'll check your eligibility on the spot.
Why are students at higher risk?
University life creates the perfect conditions for meningitis B to spread. Freshers in particular are at elevated risk because:
Living in halls of residence
Brings you into close, sustained contact with large numbers of people you haven't previously mixed with.
Sharing everyday items
Such as bottles, glasses, cutlery and vapes can transmit the bacteria directly.
Unvaccinated students
Particularly those who missed the NHS infant schedule or who grew up outside the UK
Crowded spaces
Clubs, bars, student unions and shared kitchens increases exposure to the bacteria.
Conveniently located for Liverpool students
Our London Road pharmacy is ideally situated for students studying and living in the Liverpool city centre area, within easy reach of both the University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU).
We also offer a range of other vaccinations from flu to travel to keep you protected wherever you go.
Know the symptoms
Meningitis B can deteriorate extremely quickly – symptoms can progress from early warning signs to a life-threatening emergency within hours. Knowing what to look for could save a life.
If you or someone around you develops these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Do not wait to see if they improve.
Early symptoms
- Sudden high fever
- Severe headache
- Feeling or being sick
- Aching muscles and joints
- Cold hands and feet despite a fever
Later symptoms
- A stiff neck
- Sensitivity to light
- Seizures or fitting
- Confusion or disorientation
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking
- A blotchy red or purple rash that does not fade when a glass is pressed against it – this is a sign of septicaemia and is a medical emergency
Useful Resources
Meningitis Now
meningitisnow.org
The UK’s leading meningitis charity, with detailed information on symptoms, treatment and support for those affected.
Meningitis Research Foundation
meningitis.org
Research, awareness and support for meningitis and septicaemia.
NHS: Meningitis
nhs.uk
Official NHS guidance on meningitis symptoms and treatment. For emergencies call 999 or 111.
Don't leave it until it's too late
Meningitis B doesn’t wait. The start of a new academic year – particularly Freshers’ Week – is the highest-risk period for students. Getting vaccinated before or at the very start of term gives you the best possible protection when you need it most.
It takes a matter of minutes. It costs you nothing if you’re eligible. And it could protect your life.
Flexible appointments
Three convenient locations across Liverpool with regular appointments during our opening hours.
Private consultation rooms
Your vaccination will take place in a comfortable and private room within our pharmacy.
Experienced pharmacists
Our pharmacists are trained in the latest guidance on vaccinations and immunisation.
Comprehensive service
We don't just provide the vaccine, our pharmacists can provide travel health advice and recommend products.
