Meningitis B Vaccination and Advice

 

At present

  • There is no NHS catch-up programme for children over two years or older at present for Meningitis B
  • In situations like the current cases in Kent, public health teams provide antibiotics to close contacts to help prevent further spread.
  • You cannot get the vaccination if 25yrs or over.
  • Please check your NHS app to confirm your immunisation history, or complete an Anima admin request.

If you do not have symptoms but are concerned about possible exposure, get up to date information about the current Kent meningitis outbreak, who is eligible for prophylactic antibiotics and the symptoms of meningitis to look out for

The surgery is not able to prescribe antibiotics for this until further information is provided from the UKHSA

Although cases like this can be worrying, they remain rare. Parents/individuals should watch for symptoms such as:

  • Fever
  • Severe headache
  • Vomiting
  • Rash
  • Unusual drowsiness

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical attention immediately. Do not attend the GP surgery if you have these symptoms. Go to A&E or call 999 immediately.

The NHS vaccination programme is designed to protect those most at risk at the times they are most vulnerable.

Concerned About Exposure but No Symptoms?

  • Please complete an Anima request.
  • Do not attend in person unless advised.

More Information

Up-to-date guidance on meningitis and vaccination

MenB Vaccine

The MenB vaccine protects against meningococcal group B bacteria, a common cause of meningitis in young children in the UK.

  • Recommended for babies at 8 weeks, a second dose at 12 weeks, and a booster at 1 year.

If missed children are only eligible until the age of two years.

MenACWY Vaccine

The MenACWY vaccine protects against 4 types of meningococcal bacteria: A, C, W, and Y.

  • Offered to teenagers aged 14 years old via school.

If missed at school children remain eligible until the age of 25 years.  

Published: Mar 16, 2026