Meningitis Vaccination Enquiries

We are aware of recent reports of a meningitis outbreak in Kent, identified as the MenB (Meningococcal B) strain.

Current vaccination guidance:

MenB vaccine

• This vaccine is only routinely offered on the NHS to babies.
• It is not currently licensed for individuals over 1 year of age, so we are unable to provide this vaccine to older children, teenagers, or adults.

MenACWY vaccine (covers strains A, C, W, and Y)

• This is offered to teenagers in school.
• If missed, a catch-up vaccine is available up to age 25.
• We can offer appointments for this vaccine if eligible.

The MenACWY vaccine does NOT protect against MenB, which is the strain involved in the current outbreak.

At present, we have not received guidance from NHS England about any additional vaccination programme for MenB in response to this outbreak. If we do we will contact patients accordingly.