Meningitis Update

We are unable to offer the Meningitis B vaccine to non-eligible age groups or children who did not receive this as part of their routine childhood immunisations before the programme was introduced in 2015.

What’s happening?

  • There is a meningococcal disease outbreak in Kent.
  • UKHSA is working to contain the outbreak and is giving prophylaxis antibiotics to close contacts.
  • No new advice has been issued about accessing the MenB vaccine for the wider public.

What protection does my secondary-aged child already have?

  • Children receive Hib/MenC at 1 year of age, which provides early protection.
  • In Year 9, young people are offered the MenACWY vaccine.
  • MenACWY provides protection during the later school years and into college/university, where risk is higher.
  • This means most secondary-aged children already have strong protection against the meningococcal strains of greatest concern in teens and young adults

Know the Symptoms of Meningitis – Seek urgent medical help if you notice:

  • Rash that doesn’t fade with pressure
  • High fever
  • Severe headache
  • Stiff neck
  • Vomiting
  • Cold hands or feet
  • Confusion

Reduce the Risk

  • Wash hands regularly
  • Don’t share drinks, vapes, or cigarettes