Am I eligible for the MenB vaccine?published at 09:45 GMT
09:45 GMT
A targeted vaccination programme for 5,000 students is expected to begin on the University of Kent campus in Canterbury later today. They’ll be given a jab for Meningitis B – the strain confirmed in six cases so far.
Who is the MenB vaccine offered to normally?
Since 2015, babies have been given vaccinations on the NHS for Meningitis B, or MenB.
The vaccine is recommended for babies aged eight weeks. It’s followed up with a second dose at 12 weeks, then a booster when they turn one.
It protects against the most common, but not all, group B bacteria.
Long-term health conditions
People with certain long-term health conditions are also recommended to get the MenB vaccine, and can be referred on the NHS by their GP.
This includes people with no spleen, sickle cell anaemia, coeliac disease or complement disorders (an immune disorder), according to Meningitis Now.
Can I pay for a vaccine?
The MenB vaccine is available through pharmacies, travel clinics and private GP practices.
The cost varies from place to place, but Meningitis Now says to expect to pay at least £110 for the two doses required.
Speaking to BBC Breakfast earlier this morning, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said it is “not necessary” for people to purchase vaccines privately as a result of the outbreak.