We are currently receiving enquiries regarding recent media reports of meningitis B (MenB) cases in Kent.

• The reported cases are part of a localised outbreak in Kent, mainly affecting a specific group (students with close contact exposure)
• There is currently no evidence of increased risk in Swansea or Wales
• Public Health teams are managing this with targeted antibiotics and vaccination for close contacts only

• The MenB vaccine is part of the routine NHS childhood vaccination programme
• It is offered to babies only (up to 2 years of age)
• It is not routinely available on the NHS for older children or adults

Our practice is unable to provide the MenB vaccine for older children or adults, including on a private basis.

Some private clinics may offer this vaccine; however:

• It is not currently recommended for the general public
• It may not provide immediate protection
• It is only used in specific situations as advised by Public Health

We can offer the MenACWY vaccine to:

• Patients aged up to 25 years who did not receive it at school

This vaccine protects against meningitis strains A, C, W and Y, but:

➡️ It does NOT protect against MenB

Meningitis can become serious quickly. Please seek urgent medical help if you or your child develops:

• Fever, headache, vomiting
• Neck stiffness or sensitivity to light
• Rash that does not fade when pressed
• Drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty waking
• Cold hands and feet, limb pain

📞 Call 111 or 999 if urgent

• Be reassured that the current situation is localised and not affecting our area
• Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date
• Teenagers and young adults should check they have received the MenACWY vaccine
• Be aware of symptoms and seek urgent help if concerned

For more information about meningitis symptoms and vaccination:

🔔 Important

We are following national and Public Health Wales guidance.

At present, we are not offering MenB vaccination outside this guidance.

This page will be updated if advice changes.