We understand that some patients may be concerned and are contacting the practice about receiving the MenB (meningococcal B) vaccine.

Please be aware that the MenB vaccine is not routinely offered on the NHS to individuals over the age of 2 years as part of the standard vaccination schedule.

If you have been in direct contact with a confirmed case of meningococcal disease, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) or your local Health Protection Team will contact you personally if you are considered to be at genuine risk.

UKHSA is responsible for:

• Identifying people who may have been exposed
• Organising and providing preventative (prophylactic) antibiotics, if needed
• Advising on whether vaccination is appropriate

This centralised process ensures a safe and coordinated public‑health response so that anyone who may be at risk is assessed and supported promptly, helping to minimise further spread.

If you have not been contacted, it is very unlikely that you require antibiotics or the MenB vaccine.

If you have questions about possible exposure or the need for preventative treatment, please contact UKHSA or your local Health Protection Team directly.

When Should You Contact the GP Practice or Seek Urgent Help?

GP practices will always assess and support patients who are clinically unwell.
However, meningococcal disease can develop quickly, so it is important to know when to seek urgent help.

Call 999 or Go to A&E Immediately If You or Someone Else Develops:

Key symptoms of meningococcal disease include:

• A non‑blanching rash
  (a rash that does not fade when you press a glass firmly against it)
• Fever with a severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Dislike of bright lights (photophobia)
• Drowsiness, confusion or difficulty waking
• Severe muscle pain
• Cold hands and feet, or mottled/blotchy skin

In Babies and Young Children, Additional Symptoms May Include:

• Poor feeding
• A high‑pitched, unusual cry
• A bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the head)
• Being very difficult to wake or unusually floppy

If You’re Concerned About Symptoms

If you are worried about meningococcal symptoms or someone is becoming seriously unwell, seek medical advice urgently.

Your prompt action helps ensure that urgent care is available for those who need it most.
Thank you for your understanding and support.

Meningitis outbreak in the Canterbury area

For more information relating to the outbreak in the Canterbury area please click Here