We are aware of recent reports of a meningitis B outbreak and understand that this may be concerning for patients. At present, additional meningitis B vaccinations are only offered in exceptional circumstances, defined as:
- Close contact with a confirmed case, or
- Time spent in specific UKHSA‑identified locations (listed below).
Outside these situations, the NHS continues to provide meningitis vaccinations only as part of the national immunisation schedule:
- MenB vaccine for infants under 2 years
- MenACWY vaccine for young people aged 14–25 (including catch‑up)
GP practices cannot offer meningitis vaccinations on the NHS outside these eligible groups. Vaccination outside the routine schedule is only available privately through some community pharmacies and private clinics.
To help reduce demand on our phone lines, please check your vaccination record using the NHS App where possible before contacting the surgery.
We also encourage all patients to stay up to date with routine vaccines, including the MMR vaccine, which protects against infections that may also lead to meningitis.
If you or someone else has symptoms of meningitis, call 999 immediately.
If you do not have symptoms but believe you have been in contact with a confirmed case, call the UKHSA helpline on 0344 225 3861 (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm).
More information on meningitis symptoms is available at:
www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis
Current exceptional circumstances where vaccination may be offered:
- University of Kent students normally resident on the Canterbury campus (and some staff in affected halls)
- Other Canterbury students in accommodation where antibiotic prophylaxis has been advised
- Individuals who attended Club Chemistry, Canterbury, between 5–16 March