Important Information for Families
There has been a recent outbreak of Meningococcal B (MenB) infection in Kent, and although there are no local cases in the West Midlands, NHS England, UKHSA, and local health systems in Birmingham, Solihull and the Black Country are reminding families how important the MenB vaccine is for protecting babies and young children.
This guide explains what’s happening, why vaccination matters, and what parents need to know.
⚠️ What’s Happening?
UKHSA has confirmed a cluster of MenB cases in Kent. Some people linked to the outbreak may have travelled home to other parts of the country, including the West Midlands. Although no local outbreak has been identified here, health authorities are encouraging parents to ensure their children are up to date with their MenB vaccinations.
MenB infection can cause:
- Meningitis (inflammation of the brain)
- Septicaemia (blood poisoning)
These illnesses can develop very quickly, which is why vaccination is the best protection.
🧒 Who Is Most at Risk?
Babies and young children are the most vulnerable to MenB infection. For this reason, the MenB vaccine is offered routinely on the NHS as part of the childhood immunisation schedule.
If your child is due or overdue for their MenB vaccine, now is an especially important time to get them protected.
📅 Updated MenB Vaccination Schedule (from 1 July 2025)
The NHS has updated the timing of the second MenB dose to offer earlier protection.
Your child will now receive the MenB vaccine at:
| Age |
Dose |
| 8 weeks |
1st dose |
| 12 weeks |
2nd dose (moved earlier for stronger early protection) |
| 1 year |
Booster dose |
If your child has missed any doses, they can still catch up up to age 2.
💊 What to Expect After the Vaccine
It’s normal for babies to develop a fever after the MenB vaccine. To keep your baby comfortable:
- Give paracetamol soon after the vaccination
- Follow the dosing instructions carefully
- Fever usually settles within 24–48 hours
Other mild effects may include fussiness, reduced appetite, or soreness at the injection site.
If you’re worried at any point, please contact the practice or NHS 111.
🧾 Why the MenB Vaccine Matters — Especially Now
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent MenB infection. It helps protect your child from:
- Severe illness
- Long‑term complications
- Emergency hospital treatment
Even though there are no local cases, staying up to date with vaccines is the best way to keep your child safe.
🧒 Catch‑Up Vaccinations
If your child has missed a MenB appointment, please contact us. We can arrange a catch‑up dose to ensure they are fully protected.
⚠️ Symptoms of Meningitis to Be Aware Of
Meningitis can be hard to spot, especially in babies. Symptoms may include:
- High temperature
- Cold hands and feet
- Vomiting
- Fast breathing
- Pale, mottled or blotchy skin
- A rash that doesn’t fade under a glass
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Dislike of bright lights
- Being very sleepy or difficult to wake
- Seizures (fits)
If you ever feel your child is seriously unwell, trust your instincts and seek urgent medical help.
📞 We’re Here to Help
If you have questions about the MenB vaccine, the national outbreak, or your child’s immunisation record, please contact the practice team. We understand that news about Meningitis can be worrying, and we’re here to support you.