Vaccinations Posted or Updated on 15 Apr 2026

Vaccination to protect against meningitis 

You will no doubt be aware of the outbreak of Meningitis B that has led to the deaths of 2 people in Kent. 

As a result of the widespread coverage of this, practices may receive contact from patients asking for vaccination for themselves or their children. Please see below a summary of the available vaccines that can support with protecting against meningitis: 

• MenB vaccine – offered at 8, 12 and 16 weeks, available up to the age of 2 years 
• MenACWY – offered through schools at age 13-14 years (Year 9), available to the age of 25 years 
• 6-in-1 vaccine – offered at 8, 12 and 16 weeks, available up to the age of 10. Protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), a type of bacteria that can cause meningitis 
• MMR/MMRV vaccine – first dose offered at 12 months, second dose schedule varies depending on the child’s date of birth (schedule attached). Available to the age of 25 years. Protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox, infections that can cause complications leading to meningitis 
• Pneumococcal vaccine – offered to children at 16 weeks, with a booster at 12 months. Offered to adults aged 65 and over, and to those with an at-risk condition. Protects against pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause meningitis. 

Further information about vaccines that protect against Meningitis can be found on the NHS website.