Meningitis B (Men B) is a serious infection caused but the Meningococcal Group B bacteria. The infection leads to inflammation of the meninges (protective layer surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning) which progresses rapidly and can become life-threatening within hours.
Although invasive Men B disease is rare, it remains one of the most prevalent strains of the Meningococcal bacteria in the UK, which is why the Men B vaccine was introduced into the routine immunisation schedule in 2015. Recent outbreaks of Men B in the South of England serve as a reminder that the disease remains a real threat, particularly among children, adolescents and young adults living or studying in close-contact settings, where meningococcal bacteria can spread more easily.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of this potentially life-threatening infection and alongside the routine schedule, the NHS has recently introduced a temporary catch-up programme for 17 and 18-year-olds born between 1 September 2007 and 31 August 2008. Additionally, eligible students aged between 16 and 23 years entering university for the first time are also being offered vaccination.
If you are eligible for the NHS programme, we strongly encourage you to receive your vaccination through the NHS. However, many adolescents and young adults are not eligible for these programmes and unfortunately also missed the infant Men B vaccination programme introduced in 2015. This leaves a large group of young people without protection at a time when recent meningococcal cases and outbreaks in the UK highlight the ongoing risk, particularly in those living, studying, or socialising in close-contact settings.
At HHCC, we recognise that many individuals will benefit from vaccination against Men B, even if not eligible under the NHS programmes. We offer both UK licenced Men B vaccines, Bexsero and Trumenba, which are highly effective at protecting against the meningococcal group B bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of developing invasive, life-threatening disease.
If you would like to consider having the Men B vaccine, our practice nurses are happy to assess suitability and can advise on which vaccine is most appropriate based on your age, eligibility, and vaccination history.