March 18, 2026

expert reaction to the targeted Meningitis B vaccination programme

Prof Adam Finn, Professor Emeritus of Paediatrics, University of Bristol, said:

“The MenB vaccine used in infants and one year olds in the UK which is likely to be used in this targeted programme (Bexsero) covers around 75-80% on MenB strains. The level of protection after 2 doses is very high and lasts for some years at least. From limited information yet available about the strain causing this outbreak, the likelihood of useful protection from this vaccine is high. 

“Some protection beginning after about 2 weeks after one dose but full protection only 2 weeks or more after 2^nd dose. (Antibiotics protect much faster but only for a few days).

“It will greatly increase students immunity to most MenB strains but not straight away. Very useful to them to reduce their risk of invasive meningococcal infection over coming months and years, but not a significant help during the coming days as this outbreak is brought under control. “

Prof Brendan Wren, Professor of Microbial Pathogenesis, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), said:

“The MenB vaccine is made from the cell outer membrane of the bacterium Neisseria meningitides type B. It has been proven to be effective and can provide protection for many years. MenB meningitis is a rare disease and the vaccine is expensive. Although given to young children who are the most vulnerable to MenB, it is not freely available to the whole population.

“It can take a few days for your immune system to respond to the vaccine and over a week to be protective. Vaccines are not antibiotics that can kill bacteria within hours.

“The vaccine is not an instant solution and sensible socialising, and hygiene measures should be continued for at least week. There is no harm in taking the vaccine and it will provide long-term protection.”

Declared interests

Prof Adam Finn: “AF undertakes paid consultancy for several vaccine manufacturers including GSK who make Bexsero. Until recently he was leading research funded by Pfizer who make Trumenba. However,  none of this activity relates to meningococcal vaccines.”

Prof Brendan Wren: “I declare no conflicts of interest”