We are currently receiving a high number of enquiries regarding meningitis following reports of a localised MenB outbreak in Canterbury, Kent.
We understand this may be concerning. However:
👉 There is NO increased risk to patients in Bedfordshire
👉 There are NO changes to the NHS vaccination programme
This outbreak is limited, and public health teams are managing those directly affected.
🔔 Important Patient Update – University of Kent Outbreak
We are aware of the meningococcal (MenB) outbreak linked to the University of Kent and are working closely with public health teams to support affected patients.
Who is eligible for vaccination?
We are offering the MenB vaccine (Bexsero) only to a small, specific group of patients who cannot access university vaccination clinics:
- Students at the University of Kent (Canterbury campus)
- Individuals identified as close contacts
- Those who attended Club Chemistry during the relevant time period
Accessing the vaccine
- Eligible patients (only) will be offered vaccination as soon as possible
- Vaccinations are provided on request and subject to eligibility
- Additional vaccine stock is being ordered where required
Students returning home
As students return home for the Easter break, GP practices may receive increased enquiries. We will continue to follow national guidance to ensure appropriate care.
Advice for patients
If you:
- Have been contacted by public health teams, or
- Believe you may be at risk
👉 Please contact the practice for advice.
For urgent concerns, seek immediate medical attention.
Working with public health
We are working closely with:
- Local Public Health teams
- NHS England
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)
🛡️ Meningitis Vaccination – What You Need to Know
Meningitis vaccines are part of the routine NHS immunisation schedule:
- Given in infancy (MenB vaccine)
- Given again at age 14 (MenACWY vaccine)
👉 If these vaccinations have been completed, you are well protected and do not require additional NHS doses
ℹ️ Important Information About MenB
- MenB is now the most common type of meningitis in the UK
- The vaccine protects against the most common strains (but not all)
- It has reduced infections by around 75% in vaccinated children
- Protection is not lifelong, but remains effective for most people
👉 Healthy adults who had the MenB vaccine as children are not eligible for an NHS booster
- Some individuals choose a private booster (e.g. before university) via pharmacies
- GP practices do not provide private MenB vaccinations
👥 Who May Need Vaccination Now?
Most patients do not need any additional vaccination.
✔️ Aged 14–18
- Missed school vaccination
- Can attend community catch-up clinics
- Eligibility checked via CHIS
✔️ Over 18 & University Students (Local Only)
- Attending a local university
- Have not received MenACWY vaccine
✔️ Higher Risk Patients
You may need additional protection if you have:
- Problems with your spleen (asplenia)
- A weakened immune system
- Certain rare medical conditions
👉 Please contact the practice for individual assessment
📍 Community Catch-Up Vaccination Clinics (Bedfordshire)
Free clinics are available for:
- School-aged children and under 5s who missed routine vaccinations
- Includes meningitis, MMR, polio, HPV and boosters
Location:
King’s House, 245 Ampthill Road, Bedford, MK42 9AZ
Times:
Typically 10:00am – 2:00pm (especially during school holidays)
Access:
Walk-in or pre-booked
Booking:
📞 0300 555 5055 (option 5)
🌐 https://www.schoolvaccination.uk/blmk
🚨 Symptoms – Seek Urgent Medical Help
Meningitis can develop quickly. Call 999 or attend A&E immediately if you or your child has:
- Fever
- Cold hands and feet
- Headache or vomiting
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Drowsiness or confusion
- A rash that does not fade when pressed
💬 Do I Need to Do Anything?
For most patients:
- ❌ No additional vaccines are required
- ❌ No antibiotics are needed
- ✔️ Continue with routine vaccinations
👉 If you are unsure about your vaccination status, please contact the practice and we can check your records.
🔗 Further Information
For official guidance:
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)
- NHS meningitis information
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.