Summary
The NHS is providing a second dose of the MenB vaccine after a meningitis B outbreak in Kent, which resulted in two deaths and 19 confirmed cases. Those who were exposed, including university students and school pupils, are eligible for the second dose. Vaccination clinics will be available in multiple locations in Kent, and appointments can be booked online.
Key Facts
- Nearly 12,000 people received a first dose of the meningitis B vaccine following an outbreak.
- The outbreak in Kent led to two deaths and 19 confirmed cases of the disease.
- The NHS will offer a second dose of the vaccine, needed for full protection.
- Clinics will open in Canterbury, Faversham, and Ashford for vaccinations.
- Students in university halls and club-goers linked to the outbreak are among those eligible for the vaccine.
- The UK Health Security Agency declared a national incident to manage the response.
- A MenB vaccination program has been part of routine care for babies and young children since 2015.
- Due to the outbreak, experts are reconsidering offering the vaccine to teenagers.
