23/03/2026
We understand that recent news about MenB cases in the UK may feel worrying for many patients and families. Meningococcal group B (MenB) is a rare but serious bacterial infection. The good news is that vaccination offers strong protection and is routinely available for babies and those at higher risk.
More information can be found at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/vaccination/
The Men B vaccine has been offered at 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 1 year of age since 2015. Babies can be offered missed vaccinations up to 2 years of age. The MenB vaccine is not routinely offered to children over 2 years old on the NHS. It is usually available privately, although we are aware that some private supplies are currently being redirected to support the vaccination programme in Kent. This may mean it is not widely available at present.
The Men ACWY vaccine is given to children in school in School Year 9 (13 or 14 years of age). Children who missed their immunisation can receive the vaccine up to 25 years of age through the practice.
You can check your or your child’s immunisation history in the ‘red book’, which records routine vaccinations from birth. You can also check your online record and compare this with the recommended schedule.
If you are still not sure if you, or your child, are up to date with your routine immunisations, please contact us via the administration section on Rapid Health and we will be happy to check this for you.
Read about the different vaccines that can help prevent meningitis and when they're usually given.
