Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection that can progress rapidly and become life-threatening within hours. It remains one of the most common causes of bacterial meningitis in the UK, and early prevention is always preferable to treatment.
Following the recent outbreak of Meningitis B in Canterbury, Kent, we have received a significant increase in enquiries from concerned members and families. We want to keep you fully informed.
VACCINE AVAILABILITY
We want to be transparent: the Men B vaccine has been out of stock nationally since November 2025. This is a UK-wide supply issue affecting all practices, not something specific to us. If you are a member of the practice it’s likely you have already been vaccinated in one of our previous vaccination drives. For newer members we are actively working to secure stock and will contact our members as soon as it becomes available.
If you would like to be added to our waitlist, please get in touch and we will ensure you are among the first to be contacted when supply is restored.
WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW
While Men B stock remains unavailable, we strongly recommend members consider the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against four other strains of meningococcal disease – Men A, C, W and Y – and is available now.
Please contact the team to arrange this.
ABOUT THE CURRENT OUTBREAK
The outbreak is centred in Canterbury, Kent, and is linked to the University of Kent. It is not affecting our area. Public health teams are managing it through targeted antibiotic prophylaxis for close contacts and, where appropriate, vaccination of specific at-risk groups. This is a localised outbreak – not a national epidemic – and the overall risk to the general population remains low.
KNOW THE SYMPTOMS
Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly. Seek emergency care immediately – call 999 or go to A&E – if you or anyone in your household develops:
- Fever and severe headache
- Stiff neck
- Vomiting
- Cold hands and feet
- Drowsiness or confusion
- A rash that does not fade when pressed firmly with a glass
Do not wait. Early treatment saves lives.
SPEAK TO YOUR DOCTOR
If you have specific concerns about your own risk or that of a family member, please contact us directly. We are here to help and happy to discuss your individual circumstances.