‘Men B vaccination should not be offered on demand’ - Longton Health Centre speaks out amid outbreak
A large Lancashire health centre has issued advice on people looking for Meningitis B vaccinations amid a growing national outbreak.
So far, no cases have been recorded in Lancashire, but the number of cases of meningitis linked to an outbreak in Kent has risen to 27, up from 20 previously, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said.
A new case has recently been discovered in London, and there are worries that the infection could spread widely as students return home for Easter. Already two people have died and several others are seriously ill, prompting people to look for vaccinations.
Longton Health Centre, which has around 11,000 patients in South Ribble, issued a statement on its social media page yesterday, reminding people what the current vaccination strategy is.
It said: "The Men B Vaccinations are not available on the NHS Currently - apart from baby immunisations.
“People under 10 years old should have been offered the vaccine. The schedule is being reviewed in light of the Meningitis outbreak. There is currently no recommendation for mass Men B vaccination.
“UKHSA management of the Kent incident is focused on targeted vaccination of defined groups, alongside antibiotic prophylaxis for close contacts. Men B vaccination should not be offered on demand for reassurance, as protection is strain-specific, takes time to develop, and is not part of the current outbreak control strategy."
What do public health bosses say?
Dr Sakti Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, Lancashire County Council, said: “People may have seen recent media coverage about meningitis and may be understandably concerned. I want to reassure residents that there are currently no confirmed cases in Lancashire, and the risk to the general public remains very low.
“Meningitis is rare but serious. While routine vaccinations protect against several common types of meningitis, they do not protect against all strains, which is why it’s important for everyone to be aware of the symptoms. These can include a sudden fever, headache, vomiting, or a rash that does not fade when pressed.
"Anyone who is worried should seek medical advice promptly.
“We are continuing to work closely with the UK Health Security Agency and other health partners and will keep the situation under review.”
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