Meningitis B “MenB” Information

Meningitis B Information

Keep up to date by visiting the UKHSA website:

Meningitis B outbreak: what you need to know   – UK Health Security Agency 

We will aim to keep our information current, but the latest updates will always be via the UKHSA website.

 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.
  • Remember that MenB bacteria transmission requires close and prolonged contact such as living in the same household or intimate contact like kissing.
  • No new advice has been issued about accessing the Meningitis B vaccine, known as MenB, for the wider public.

Vaccinations:

  • At present it is believed that no additional vaccinations are required outside of the affected area in Kent. This may change depending on guidance from Public Health England.
  • Children born in or after 1st May 2015 who completed all their routine childhood vaccinations are likely to be protected against Meningitis B as it is included in the standard vaccine schedule.
  • You should check your child’s vaccine status by checking their red book or their vaccination record via the NHS app proxy access.
  • If you believe your child’s vaccinations are incomplete, and you would like them to be vaccinated then please contact us. The Meningitis B vaccine is free of charge before any child’s second birthday.
  • There is no NHS catch-up programme for anyone born before 1st May 2015 for Meningitis B.
  • Anyone who is between 13/14 (in Year 9 at school) and 25 years old can have any Meningitis ACWY strain vaccination for free if they have missed any. International students in this age group who are not vaccinated are also eligible for these.

To view the Full vaccine schedule, visit the NHS website:

NHS vaccinations and when to have them – NHS

The meningitis B vaccine can be accessed privately from high street providers. Claremont Clinic cannot provide the meningitis B vaccine privately nor recommend any one particular private provider.

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

The NHS Website gives more information on symptoms of meningitis:

Meningitis – NHS

Reduce the risk:

  • Wash hands regularly
  • Don’t share drinks, vapes, or cigarettes
  • Make sure you are registered with us or a local GP to you.

If you went to Club Chemistry in Canterbury on 5th 6th or 7th March or are a close contact of a confirmed or suspected case of meningitis or have concerns:

  • Contact us or NHS 111