NHS urges students in Lancashire and South Cumbria to prioritise their health ahead of starting university

1st September 2026

NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB) is urging students preparing to start university to take essential steps to protect their health as they move away from home.

Registering with a local GP and making sure vaccinations are up to date can help students stay healthy as they begin university life.

One of the most important things eligible students can do this summer is get protected against meningococcal B (MenB) through a new one-off vaccination programme. MenB is a rare, but potentially life-threatening disease, that can result in life changing disabilities.

To be eligible, students must be under 25 and starting university or residential further education for the first time. Two doses of the MenB vaccine are needed - at least four weeks apart - for the best protection. The first dose is available until 31 December 2026, with the second dose available until 31 March 2027.

University students are at increased risk because the bacteria that causes MenB spreads through close and prolonged contact, such as living together in halls of residence, kissing, or sharing drinks and vapes.

Dr Andy Knox, medical director for the ICB, said: "In the excitement of starting university for the first time, looking after your health is as important as making new connections and packing your belongings.

"Being around lots of new people and an increase in social activities can mean that infections such as MenB spread more easily. While the disease may be rare, it can become life threatening very quickly and cause life changing complications.

"If you're eligible, it should be one of your top priorities for Freshers' Week to register with a local GP and ensure sure you have both doses of the MenB vaccine. Your university’s student services should be able to help with this and many arrange clinics to take place on site in the first term."

Student health checklist

NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB is encouraging students to:

  • Register with a GP near your university as soon as possible. You do not have to wait until you are ill to register.
  • If needed, find a local NHS dentist and understand what dental services are available in your new area.
  • Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, including taking up the offer of the MenB vaccine if you are eligible.
  • If you take regular medication, order enough before you move and arrange repeat prescriptions with your new GP if needed.
  • Look after your mental wellbeing. Starting university can be a big adjustment, so make sure you know where to access support if you need it.
  • Learn how to use the NHS App to order repeat prescriptions, view your health record and access NHS services.
  • Know when to use NHS 111 for urgent medical advice and when to call 999 in an emergency.

Symptoms of MenB can develop suddenly and include a high temperature, severe headache, a stiff neck, cold hands and feet, sensitivity to light, confusion, sickness, drowsiness, seizures and a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass. Anyone with these symptoms should seek urgent medical help immediately.

The MenB vaccine can be booked through the online national booking system or at participating walk in and pop-up clinics.

To find out where to get vaccinated or book an appointment

For more information visit Meningitis - NHS. If you think you or a loved one has meningitis, get medical help by calling 999. Do not drive yourself to A&E.

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