It is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. Symptoms of meningitis B may include fever, headache, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, and a rash. If left untreated, meningitis B can lead to severe health problems, including brain damage, hearing loss, and limb amputation.

Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to protect against meningitis B. The vaccine is usually given as two or three doses, spaced a certain number of months apart. Vaccination is recommended for people of all ages, but particularly important for young adults and teenagers who have a higher risk of contracting the disease.

The meningitis B vaccine has only recently become available on the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. It is now part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule for children born after 1 May 2015. Patients born before this date are not eligible for vaccination by the NHS, but can source the vaccine privately.

Despite the availability of meningitis B vaccines, a significant number of people are still not vaccinated. This may be due to lack of awareness or misinformation about the disease and vaccine. Healthcare providers play an important role in educating their patients about the importance of vaccination. It is also important to remember that meningitis B vaccines are safe and effective, having undergone rigorous testing before approval for use.