South East leads the country for MenB vaccine uptake
More than 20,000 young people have been vaccinated in the first two weeks
The South East has delivered more meningococcal B vaccinations than any other region in England.
NHS England said 20,064 MenB vaccinations were delivered across the South East by 31st July, the highest number of any region in the country.
The one-off NHS vaccination programme launched on Monday, 20th July.
The vaccine is being offered to people born between 1st September 2007 and 31st August 2008.
It's also being offered to people born on or after 21st July 2001 who are starting university, or certain residential further education colleges, for the first time this autumn.
Eligible young people need two doses of the vaccine, given at least 28 days apart, for maximum protection.
More than 1,000 community pharmacies in the South East have signed up to deliver the programme.
Inderjit Sanghera, Regional Chief Pharmacist for NHS England South East, said: "It's fantastic to see so many young, eligible people across the South East taking up the offer of a MenB vaccination, with more than 20,000 vaccinations delivered in less than two weeks."
He said: "These figures show that young people and their families understand the importance of protecting themselves against this serious disease, particularly ahead of the new university and college term."
He said: "While we're delighted with this strong start, there are still thousands of eligible young people who have not yet had their vaccine, so we'd encourage them to come forward as soon as possible and get protected."
The NHS said meningococcal B bacteria can develop rapidly and can be life-threatening.
Young people starting university are said to be at increased risk, as the bacteria can spread through close and prolonged contact, including living and socialising in shared accommodation.
Seventeen to eighteen-year-olds can book through the NHS National Booking Service for appointments at community pharmacies.
All other eligible people are being encouraged to contact a participating pharmacy directly to book an appointment.