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Meningitis Outbreak in Reading
We understand some patients may feel concerned following the three confirmed cases of meningitis in Reading. We would like to reassure everyone that meningitis remains uncommon, and the NHS has an established vaccination programme that protects against several types of meningococcal disease.
The NHS offers routine meningitis vaccinations to children and young people at specific ages
- Aged 8 weeks, 12 weeks and 1 year - Meningitis B vaccine. There is a catch up programme up to the age of 2 years only.
- School years 9 and 10 - MenACWY vaccine (protects against MenA, MenC, MenW and MenY. There is a catch up programme for patients under the age of 25 years.
If you or your child are up to date with routine immunisations, you will have protection against the most common strains.
We encourage patients to check their vaccination status if unsure. This can be done via your Red Book (child health record) or the NHS App.
Please seek urgent medical advice if you are worried about symptoms of meningitis, such as a high temperature, severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, drowsiness, confusion, vomiting, or a rash that does not fade when pressed.
The NHS website has further information on Meningitis
Published: May 15, 2026
