Meningitis B Vaccination Enquiries

We are currently receiving a high volume of enquiries regarding the Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine following reports of a recent outbreak in Kent.

Many patients will already have been vaccinated against meningitis strains A, C, W, and Y. The MenB vaccine was introduced into the UK routine immunisation programme in 2015; therefore, the majority of young people born before this time are not protected against MenB unless they have received the vaccine privately.

At present, the MenB vaccine is not commissioned for routine provision through our practice, and we are not offering it as a catch-up vaccine.

The vaccine will only be provided by the practice in the following circumstances:

• For children under the age of 2, in line with the routine immunisation schedule
• If we are specifically instructed to do so by the Health Protection Agency
• If advised by a hospital consultant for eligible high-risk patients

Please note that eligibility for NHS provision is limited. In general, only patients with specific high-risk conditions (such as those without a functioning spleen) may be considered, and this must be confirmed by a specialist.

Patients who wish to receive the MenB vaccine outside of these criteria may be able to access it privately through local pharmacies or travel clinics.

We understand that this situation may be concerning. However, due to current service pressures, we kindly ask that you do not contact the practice regarding MenB vaccination requests unless you meet the criteria outlined above, as we are unable to offer this service.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Published: Mar 17, 2026