We understand that some parents and students may be concerned following recent news reports about meningitis cases.

Current information suggests these cases involve MenB (meningococcal group B). The MenB vaccine is part of the UK childhood immunisation schedule and is routinely given to infants. It is not routinely offered to older children, teenagers, or university students, but is available privately – information about private vaccine providers can be found online.

Students and young people may be eligible for the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against groups A, C, W and Y. This vaccine is routinely offered in Year 9 (ages 13–14) and can still be given up to the age of 25 (including university students) if it was missed.

If you or your child is unsure about vaccination status:

• Vaccination history can be viewed on the NHS App, or our team can check your records
• If eligible and overdue, we can arrange an appointment for the MenACWY vaccine

Please note:

• Year 9 students are currently being vaccinated through school programmes as part of the routine schedule (this is not related to the recent news reports)
• At present, we have not received any additional guidance from health authorities

If you have concerns or would like us to check your vaccination record, please contact the practice.