Recent news reports have confirmed a cluster of meningococcal meningitis cases centred around the University of Kent, with UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) investigations ongoing.
While understandably concerning, it’s important to remember that the overall risk to the wider public remains low.
What is meningococcal disease?
Meningococcal disease is a serious but uncommon illness caused by meningococcal bacteria. It can lead to meningitis – inflammation of the lining of the brain – and sepsis. The onset can be sudden, which is why knowing the signs and symptoms, and acting quickly, is so important. There are multiple strains of meningococcal bacteria - MenA, MenB, MenC, MenW, MenX, MenY.
How is the disease spread?
Transmission of MenB requires close and prolonged contact to spread including living in the same household and intimate contact such as kissing or sharing drinks or vapes.
Who is normally eligible for the MenB vaccine on the routine NHS programme?
Routine vaccination against MenB for babies and young children was introduced in 2015, so children born after 1 May 2015 will already have received the vaccine at their 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 1-year appointments.
If you are >2 years old and you would like to discuss having the vaccine please contact the clinic.
Aside from this outbreak the risk of infection is usually low but within that cohort with the highest risk is university students.
Symptoms to Be Aware Of
Meningitis can develop quickly. Key symptoms include:
• Fever
• Severe headache
• Neck stiffness
• Sensitivity to light
• Vomiting
• A rash that doesn’t fade with pressure
These symptoms may not all appear, so as per our normal health advice please seek urgent help if someone becomes seriously unwell rapidly.
Vaccination: What to Expect
The vaccination course consists of 2 doses. The second dose should be given at least 4 weeks after the first for the best protection. It then takes at least 2 weeks after that second dose for your body to produce enough antibodies to be well protected
I’ve had the MenACWY vaccine. Do I still need the MenB vaccine?
Yes – they are separate vaccinations.
Is the MenB vaccine safe?
The MenB vaccine has been thoroughly tested and meets strict safety criteria. It has been routinely used in the infant vaccination programme in the UK since 2015 and has led to 75% reduction in MenB disease in vaccinated groups. The MenB vaccine has a good safety profile.
Stonegate Medical Clinic & Vaccine Availability
MenB and MenACWY vaccines are currently out of stock owing to the demand but are expected to become available to private providers again soon.
Join Our Waiting List
Please join our waiting list now if you’d like to be contacted as soon as supplies are released, as well as being made aware of all the other ways Stonegate Medical Clinic can look after the health of you and the people you care about.
If you still have any questions please contact us – we’re always happy to discuss any queries or concerns people may have.