UK Experts Urge MenB Vaccine for All Teens After Deadly Kent Outbreak

Government vaccine advisers in the United Kingdom are recommending that the MenB vaccine — which protects against meningococcal disease caused by group B meningococcal bacteria — be made available to all teenagers aged 15 and over. The recommendation comes in the wake of a meningitis B outbreak in Kent earlier this year, in which two people died.

The Kent Outbreak

The meningitis B outbreak that hit Kent in the first half of 2026 prompted significant concern among public health officials. Meningococcal disease caused by group B bacteria can progress extremely rapidly, sometimes from first symptoms to severe illness within hours, making it particularly dangerous for young people who may not recognise the early warning signs.

The two deaths in the Kent outbreak underlined the continued risk posed by meningococcal B disease even in a country with established vaccination programmes, and triggered an urgent review of whether the existing programme — which currently covers babies and young children — should be expanded.

Current Vaccination Situation

The MenB vaccine (Bexsero) was introduced into the UK's routine childhood immunisation programme in 2015. It is currently offered to babies at eight weeks, sixteen weeks and one year old. However, teenagers — particularly those entering university settings where close living conditions can facilitate the spread of meningococcal disease — remain vulnerable to MenB infection.

Advisers said that extending the programme to teenagers aged 15 and older would provide protection during a particularly high-risk period, including the transition to university or other communal living arrangements.

Government Response

Ministers have been asked to consider the recommendations from the expert advisers and decide whether to fund an expansion of the existing MenB programme. The cost of extending the vaccine to all teenagers would be significant but advocates say it is justified given the severity of the disease and the potential to prevent deaths.

Meningitis charities and advocacy groups have long campaigned for wider vaccine access and welcomed the latest recommendation, urging the government to act swiftly to protect young people from a disease that can kill within 24 hours. More information is available through the health section of this site.