Timing
Several weeks before travel where possible, as more than one dose may be recommended.
Typical course
Usually 2 doses, spaced a month or more apart depending on age and prior vaccination history.
Often relevant for
- any destination involving shared accommodation, university halls abroad, or extended backpacking
Meningitis B is not covered by the routine Men ACWY travel vaccine, so travellers who want broader protection, particularly young adults heading to university abroad or into hostel-style travel, sometimes ask about it specifically.
It is less commonly a strict travel requirement than ACWY and is usually discussed on a case-by-case basis depending on age, destination and living arrangements.
A travel health consultation is a useful place to weigh this up alongside the traveller's existing vaccination history from childhood immunisation programmes.
Not sure if you need this one?
A travel health consultation looks at your whole itinerary, not just one vaccine.
See our travel vaccination consultation service →Other vaccines