Meningitis B (MenB) Vaccine

We have received many questions about the meningitis B (MenB) vaccine following the recent outbreak in Kent.

The MenB vaccine was introduced around 10 years ago. This means that most teenagers and adults were not routinely offered this vaccine when they were younger. However, many people will have received other meningitis vaccines, such as MenC or MenACWY, either at their GP surgery or at school.

At present, the NHS only offers the MenB vaccine to:

• Babies under the age of 2, as part of the routine schedule
• People identified during a local outbreak, if advised by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)

For patients who are immunosuppressed, the vaccine is only given if recommended by their hospital consultant. This is because the decision depends on the individual’s condition and treatment. We follow the national guidance: Immunisation of individuals with underlying medical conditions

If you would like the MenB vaccine and are not eligible on the NHS, you can choose to have it privately at some pharmacies.

Although this may change in the future, the NHS does not currently offer a catch-up MenB vaccine for older children or adults.

Published: Mar 17, 2026