Meningitis Vaccines in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide

Meningitis is a serious infection that can cause severe illness and even death. Fortunately, several vaccines are available in the UK to protect against different types of meningitis. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the meningitis vaccines available, who is eligible for them, and why vaccination is crucial.

Understanding Meningitis and Available Vaccines

Meningitis can be caused by various infections, including bacterial and viral pathogens. Meningococcal bacteria are a common cause, with six main groups – A, B, C, W, X, and Y – that can lead to meningococcal disease, encompassing both meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning). Meningitis Now provides detailed information on these groups.

Vaccines Available on the NHS

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) offers several vaccines to protect against meningitis. These include:

MenB Vaccine

The MenB vaccine protects against meningococcal group B bacteria, a leading cause of bacterial meningitis in young children in the UK. The NHS recommends this vaccine for babies at 8 weeks, with a second dose at 12 weeks and a booster at 1 year. The timing of the second dose was updated in July 2025 to enhance protection for younger infants.

6-in-1 Vaccine

Also known as the DTaP/IPV/Hib/Hep B vaccine, this vaccine offers protection against diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, hepatitis B, polio, and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Hib can also cause meningitis. The NHS schedule includes this vaccine at 8 weeks, 12 weeks, 16 weeks, and 18 months.

Pneumococcal Vaccine

This vaccine protects against serious infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria, including meningitis. Babies receive injections at 16 weeks, with a booster at 1 year. A single dose is also offered to adults aged 65 and over. More information is available on the NHS website.

MMR Vaccine

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. Meningitis can sometimes occur as a complication of these infections. The vaccine is typically given in two doses, at 12 months and 18 months. Find out more about the MMRV vaccine on the NHS website.

MenACWY Vaccine

The MenACWY vaccine provides protection against four types of bacteria (meningococcal groups A, C, W, and Y) that can cause meningitis. The NHS offers this vaccine to teenagers aged 14. It is also available to individuals up to age 25 who have not previously received a vaccine containing MenC.

Bexsero Vaccine

Bexsero is a vaccine that helps protect against most strains of Neisseria meningitidis group B (MenB) bacteria, which can cause meningitis and septicaemia. It has been used in the UK routine immunisation programme for babies since 2015 and has led to a 75% reduction in MenB disease in vaccinated groups. According to the UK Health Security Agency, two doses are needed for protection, with the second dose given at least 4 weeks after the first.

Eligibility and Access

The NHS routinely offers meningitis vaccines to babies and teenagers. Young people who missed the MenACWY vaccine at school can still receive it up to age 25, particularly university entrants who are at increased risk. Meningitis Now provides further details on eligibility.

Importance of Vaccination

Meningitis can be life-threatening and cause long-term disabilities. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against this serious illness. It is crucial to ensure that you and your children are up to date with the recommended vaccinations. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, consult your GP.