Home / Health / Free Meningitis Vaccines Available Up To Age 25
Free Meningitis Vaccines Available Up To Age 25
17 Mar
Summary
- Free NHS meningitis vaccines are available for those up to 25 years old.
- Several vaccines protect against different types of bacterial and viral meningitis.
- Those over 25 must pay privately for meningitis vaccinations.
Meningitis vaccines are available for free on the NHS for individuals up to the age of 25. These vaccinations are crucial for protection against a disease that can rapidly become severe and potentially fatal. Bacterial meningitis, currently seen in an outbreak in Kent, can lead to serious long-term issues or death in up to 10% of cases.
Several vaccines offer protection against different meningitis-causing infections. The MenB vaccine is given to babies, while the six-in-one vaccine covers multiple diseases including meningitis. The pneumococcal vaccine protects against pneumococcal bacteria, and the MMR vaccine helps prevent complications from measles and mumps that can include meningitis. The MenACWY vaccine, covering four strains, is offered to adolescents but available up to age 25 for those who haven't received a MenC vaccine previously.
Anyone over 25 seeking protection must obtain vaccines privately, with costs ranging from £50 to £70. While vaccines are highly effective, vigilance for meningitis symptoms remains important even after vaccination.
