Addressing Meningitis Vaccination Gaps in England: Concerns, Outbreaks, and Calls for Action
Vaccination coverage against meningitis in England varies significantly, with concerns raised following two deaths in Kent. The outbreak in the Canterbury area has led to questions about the vaccination of young people. The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed that the strain of meningitis B is behind the outbreak, prompting a surge in demand for vaccines in Kent. The menB vaccine has been offered to babies since 2015, but coverage remains below pre-Covid levels. Similarly, the menACWY vaccine, offered to teenagers, has seen a decrease in coverage in recent years.
Analysis of the latest data shows variations in vaccination uptake across different regions. Coverage for menACWY for year 10 students is lowest in London and highest in the East of England. The two-dose menB vaccination coverage also varies, with some areas having significantly lower uptake rates than others. Professor Paul Hunter highlighted challenges in vaccination coverage, citing language, culture, and fear of authorities as contributing factors.
In the 2024/25 academic year, there were 378 cases of invasive meningococcal disease, with the majority caused by menB. The UKHSA reassured the public that there is no evidence of wider spread beyond the Kent region. Dr. Gayatri Amirthalingam emphasized the importance of being up to date with vaccinations and recognizing the signs of meningococcal disease. Meningitis Now and former health minister Helen Whately called for a catch-up vaccination campaign for teenagers and young people who missed out on the menB vaccine.
Pharmacies in Kent are experiencing a shortage of the menB vaccine due to increased demand. The Independent Pharmacies Association has urged the NHS to commission pharmacies to deliver a catch-up vaccination program for university students and teenagers born before 2015. Despite previous statements about the cost-effectiveness of the menB vaccine for adolescents, there are calls for a catch-up campaign to ensure adequate protection against meningitis.