We have received a number of queries about meningitis vaccines following recent reports of cases in parts of the UK.
Current situation
There is a meningococcal disease outbreak reported in Reading. Public health teams are managing this locally and providing antibiotics to close contacts where needed. At present, there is no change to national vaccination guidance and no wider rollout of additional vaccines.
Routine meningitis vaccines
Children are offered 3 doses of the MenB vaccine as part of the NHS vaccination schedule.
They are offered the vaccine with other routine vaccines at: 8 weeks, 12 weeks & 1 years old. It’s best to have the MenB vaccines on time so children are protected when they’re most at risk of getting MenB illnesses.
If your child has missed any of their MenB vaccines, contact the GP surgery to arrange. They can have the MenB vaccine up to the age of 2, but we cannot give it above that age.
- MenB vaccine
Given to babies as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule (introduced in 2015) - MenACWY vaccine
Offered to young people in Year 9 (age 13–14)
If missed, it can still be given up to age 25
If you are unsure about vaccination status
Please consult your child’s red book or the NHS App.
Private vaccinations
Outside of the NHS eligibility criteria above, meningitis vaccines are not available on the NHS and would need to be arranged privately.
Important symptoms to be aware of
Seek urgent medical help if you notice:
- Rash that does not fade when pressed
- High temperature
- Severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Vomiting
- Cold hands or feet
- Confusion
Further information
https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/menacwy-vaccine/
Contacting the Practice
If you have any queries about meningitis or vaccinations, please email us at surgeryreception@nhs.net
Please avoid calling the practice about this, as our reception team are not able to give advice without a clinician reviewing your medical record. Email allows us to review your query safely and respond appropriately.