What is meningitis B and which young people will be offered a vaccine?

Those born between 1st September 2007 and 31st August 2008, as well as people under 25-years old starting university, will be eligible for the MenB vaccine.

The jabs will be free on the NHS. Two doses, at least four weeks apart, are needed for maximum protection.

Each nation has slightly different plans on giving the jabs, but in England community pharmacies will be asked to do so, with appointments becoming available from the end of July.

Those eligible will be contacted directly through the NHS App, by text and email.

People who are under 25 and starting university for the first time will be able to book their appointment directly with available pharmacies.

International students under 25 entering their first year of university, should receive their first dose in their home country where possible.

Experts say cases of invasive meningococcal disease tend to peak in October to November each year, which further heightens the risk for new university students.

Young people heading off to university are at higher risk of potentially catching this strain of meningitis B, which can spread when people live together in shared accommodation.