Meningococcal B (MenB)

 

Following an increase in Meningococcal B (MenB) cases, particularly in the Kent area of the UK, public health officials are urging parents to be vigilant, ensure vaccinations are up to date, and know the symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia.

While the risk to the general public remains low, the disease can progress very quickly.

UKHSA is working to contain the outbreak and is giving preventative antibiotics to close contacts.

Vaccination Check

If your child missed any of their 3 Meningitis B (MenB) vaccines they may still be able to have these up to the age of 2.

We are unable to offer this vaccination after the age of 2  but we will be informed if this changes

No new advice has been issued about accessing the Meningitis B vaccine, known as MenB, for the wider public.

MenACWY vaccine: information for young people

Know the Symptoms:

Symptoms can develop rapidly and include:

  • Sudden high fever
  • Severe, worsening headache
  • Vomiting and diarrhoea
  • Stiff neck
  • Dislike of bright lights
  • Cold hands and feet or shivering
  • Unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty waking
  • A rash that does not fade when a glass is pressed against it

Trust Your Instincts

If your child is unwell and symptoms are worsening, seek medical help immediately, even if they have been seen before.

Seek Immediate Help

Call 999 or go to the nearest A&E if you suspect meningitis or septicaemia, as early treatment is critical.

Hygiene Measures

Encourage regular handwashing and advise children not to share drinks, vapes, or cigarettes to reduce the spread.

Vaccine Limitations

The MenB vaccine does not protect against all strains of meningitis, so it is crucial to remain vigilant even if your child is vaccinated.

In general, vaccines are not the first line of defence in an outbreak of this kind - antibiotics are the priority for close contacts of those who are ill.

Vaccination doesn't protect you immediately and, generally, it takes a number of weeks to get the fullest protection from a vaccine and can require booster doses.

Close contacts and antibiotics

Antibiotics are the most effective way to stop the spread of the disease, and are currently being offered to thousands of close contacts of people who are ill

Antibiotics against meningococcal disease should currently be considered, for the following close contacts, regardless of meningococcal vaccination status:

  • People who have had prolonged close contact with a case in a household-type setting during the 7 days before onset of illness (for example, people who are living or sleeping in the same household, pupils in the same dormitory, boy/girlfriends, or university students sharing a kitchen in a hall of residence).
  • Students who live on the Canterbury campus at the University of Kent
  • Staff who live or work in affected halls of residence blocks on the Canterbury campus at the University of Kent
  • Staff members working at Club Chemistry nightclub, Canterbury, and anyone who attended the nightclub as visitors on 5, 6 or 7 of March 2026.

As the outbreak evolves, further groups may be identified that require antibiotic prophylaxis and will be communicated with directly by the UKHSA.

Published: Mar 19, 2026