Meningococcal Disease

 

Updates and guidance

Following the recent outbreak in Kent. Please see the current position from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA):

Current advice

There are no changes to the routine UK vaccination schedule. Please continue to promote and encourage uptake of all routine vaccines, including MenB, MenACWY, and MMR.

Protection status

It's important to clarify that the MenACWY vaccine (offered to teenagers) does not protect against MenB. The MenB vaccine is given to infants as part of the routine schedule. There is no NHS catch-up for MenB for those born before 1 May 2015.

Missed doses

Remind patients that it's never too late to catch up on missed vaccines. Teenagers and international students under 25 can access missed MenACWY and MMR vaccines for free through their GP.

Private options

For those seeking the MenB vaccine privately (for individuals born before 1 May 2015 or over 2 years old), this can be accessed via high street pharmacies or private providers.

Published: Mar 18, 2026