19/03/2026
Meningitis B Update
Vaccinations:
In light of the recent Meningitis B outbreak in Kent, we would like to clarify our position regarding Meningitis vaccinations.
The Meningitis B vaccine was introduced in 2015 and is part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule. We are only able to administer this vaccine to children up to the age of 2. Anyone over the age of 2 will need to access the vaccine privately. There are no current plans for a national catch-up campaign.
The Meningitis ACWY vaccine is routinely offered to teenagers through school-based programmes. If you are under 18 and have not received this vaccine, please contact SAINT (School Immunisation Service) on 0300 323 0032.
If you are aged 18–24 and have not yet had the MenACWY vaccine, please contact the practice to arrange an appointment.
You can also check your vaccination records via the NHS App.
Antibiotics:
GPs have been asked to prescribe antibiotics to certain people who attend the University of Kent, close contacts identified by the UKHSA & people who attended a club (Club Chemistry) in Canterbury on 5-7th March. If you fall into one of the above categories, please contact us.
For more information about Meningitis B, please follow this link: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/