We are pleased to see the new UK Immunisation Guidance which is recommending that the MenB vaccine is given, on the NHS, to those at a higher risk of contracting meningococcal disease. This includes people with no spleen, splenic dysfunction (spleen not working properly) or those with complement disorders (disorder of the immune system). It does not include those who have already suffered from MenB (people who have suffered from MenB will have built up some natural immunity against this type).
If you think that you are in an “at risk group”, seek advice from your GP. If you have any other questions about this, please contact our helpline on 0808 80 10 388 or email helpline@meningitisnow.org
Yes, there are different "strains" of meningococcal bacteria and the meningococcal B strain (sometimes shortened to MenB) is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the UK.
Other strains of meningococcal bacteria include A, C, W135 and Y. In the UK children are vaccinated against meningococcal C (MenC) and this vaccine has been very effective in preventing this type of meningitis. The MenC vaccine, however, does not protect against the other strains of meningococcal bacteria.
Strains A, W135 and Y are rare in the UK, but are a problem in some countries such as parts of Africa. A travel vaccine is available for anyone traveling to a country where these strains are more prevalent.
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