Northern Ireland’s Department of Health will launch a one-off Meningococcal B vaccination programme for teenagers from mid to late July.

The targeted initiative aims to protect those at highest risk of invasive meningococcal disease, which can cause meningitis and sepsis. Invitations will go to all individuals born between 2 July 2007 and 1 July 2008. In addition, students up to age 25 who will start higher education or residential further education in autumn 2026 are encouraged to receive the vaccine.

The programme follows a cluster of invasive meningococcal disease cases in South East England earlier this year.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt stressed the seriousness of MenB and the protection offered by vaccination. He urged eligible young people, especially those heading to university this autumn, to take up the offer and called on parents to discuss it with their teenagers.

The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Michael McBride, highlighted the devastating impact seen in recent UK outbreaks and emphasised that immunisation provides significant public health benefits. He said those who are not vaccinated are not protected.

Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the Public Health Agency, said her team is working with health service colleagues to deliver the programme over the summer and encouraged all eligible people to participate.