SUSPECTED MENINGITIS B CASES

Posted on May 15th, 2026

The MenB vaccination is part of the NHS childhood immunisation programme and is offered to certain high-risk groups. It is not routinely offered to healthy teenagers or adults on the NHS.

We will continue to monitor updates from UKHSA and NHS England and will update our website if guidance changes.

For further information regarding vaccinations, please click on the following links:

• NHS: www.nhs.uk/conditions/meningitis/vaccination
• Meningitis Research Foundation: www.meningitis.org | 0808 800 3344 (24 hours)
• Meningitis Now: www.meningitisnow.org | 0808 80 10 388 (9am to 8pm
• UKSHA: UK Health Security Agency – GOV.UK

What is meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease is a serious but uncommon bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) or sepsis. It can develop very quickly, so recognising symptoms early and seeking urgent medical help is vital.

How does it spread?

The bacteria spread through close, prolonged contact such as:

• living in the same household
• kissing
• sharing drinks, vapes, or utensils

Vaccines all students should already have

Some routine NHS vaccines offer protection against types of meningitis:

• MenACWY vaccine – recommended for teenagers and students
• MMR vaccine – protects against measles, mumps and rubella

If you have not had your MenACWY or MMR vaccine, please book an appointment with us.

What to do if you feel unwell

Seek urgent medical attention if you develop symptoms that could suggest meningitis or sepsis, such as:

• severe headache
• fever
• drowsiness, confusion
• stiff neck
• dislike of bright lights
• rash (may or may not appear)

Symptoms can appear in any order and may not all be present. If concerned, do not wait—get medical help immediately.

Please read further about meningitis here:

Meningitis in teenagers and young people

And please read up on the signs of meningitis here:

Don’t ignore the signs

How to protect yourself

• Check your vaccination status and book catch‑up vaccines if needed.
• Maintain good hygiene and avoid sharing drinks, vapes, or utensils.
• Know the symptoms and seek urgent help if unwell.

Accessing care

We have had a number of students contact us when unwell who are not currently registered with the practice. Unfortunately, if you are not registered, we are unable to provide medical services.

It is important to register with a local GP so you can access care when needed.

Please click here to register.