MenB is the most common form of bacterial meningitis in the UK. Due to unprecedented demand, there is currently limited UK supply. Register now to be notified the moment the vaccine is back in stock.
Due to unprecedented demand, there is currently limited supply of the MenB vaccine across the UK. Ready Health are working with suppliers to access further stock. Sign up to our waiting list and we'll notify you as soon as the vaccine is available to book.
About Meningitis B
Meningococcal group B (MenB) is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the UK, accounting for over 80% of laboratory-confirmed cases of meningococcal disease. It is caused by bacteria that spread easily from person to person via respiratory droplets — coughing, sneezing and close contact.
If the bacteria pass into the bloodstream, they multiply rapidly and release toxins that can cause widespread damage to the body. Blood vessels are damaged, preventing vital oxygen reaching organs. Inflammation around the brain leads to pressure and possible nerve damage. The disease can progress within hours — early vaccination is the only reliable protection.
The MenB vaccine does not protect against Meningitis A, C, W or Y — these are covered by the separate MenACWY vaccine. We offer the MenACWY vaccine separately at Ready Health. Ask our team about both.
Due to nationwide supply constraints, the MenB vaccine is not currently available to book. Join our waiting list and we'll contact you as soon as stock arrives — no need to keep checking back.
Meningitis B in the UK
80%
of all bacterial meningitis cases in the UK are caused by group B — making it the dominant strain for over a century.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Around 1,500 cases of meningococcal disease are reported in the UK every year. MenB is most prevalent in specific age groups — particularly those in regular close contact with others.
The highest rates of MenB occur in babies under one year old. The NHS vaccinates infants — check with your GP if your child is eligible for free vaccination.
Children born before September 2015 were not included in the NHS MenB programme and may not have been vaccinated.
Those aged 15–24 in regular close contact at school, college or university face elevated risk due to bacteria spreading in communal environments.
Those not vaccinated in childhood, particularly if in communal living or with a history of missed vaccinations, may benefit from private vaccination.
People with asplenia, complement deficiency or immunosuppressive treatment face significantly higher risk and should discuss vaccination with a clinician.
MenB circulates globally. If travelling to regions with known meningococcal activity, vaccination alongside MenACWY provides broader protection.
Know the Signs
Bacterial meningitis can progress from first symptoms to a life-threatening emergency in under 24 hours. Seek emergency help immediately if you suspect meningitis.
Often with cold hands and feet despite a high temperature
Intense, persistent — often described as the worst headache of the patient's life
Difficulty bending the neck forward — a classic meningitis warning sign
Severe discomfort or pain when exposed to normal light
Unusual drowsiness, confusion or difficulty waking
Does NOT fade when pressed with a glass — sign of septicaemia. Call 999 immediately.
⚠️ If you suspect meningitis, call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not wait for all symptoms to appear. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency — early treatment is vital.
Safety & Side Effects
Yes. The MenB vaccine (Bexsero) has been rigorously tested and is used safely in NHS and private vaccination programmes. It does not contain any live organisms and cannot cause the disease it protects against.
For young children under two, a dose of paracetamol after vaccination is recommended to prevent fever — bring some to your appointment. Our clinicians will discuss all side effects and post-vaccination care at your appointment.
The NHS vaccinates babies against MenB free of charge — contact your GP if you believe your child may be eligible. Private vaccination is available for those not covered by the NHS programme.
Common side effects
Side effects are typically mild and short-lived. Our clinic is fully equipped to manage any adverse reactions following vaccination.
How It Works
The MenB course requires two doses at least four weeks apart. Once supply is confirmed, this is how your vaccination journey works.
Register at our waiting list link. We'll notify you as soon as stock becomes available to book.
Come in for your first dose. A quick injection in the upper arm, followed by a brief wait at the clinic.
Return for your second dose at least 4 weeks after the first to complete your course.
Why Choose Ready Health
All vaccinations by qualified, registered clinicians — GMC, NMC and GPhC registered.
Register once and we'll contact you directly as soon as MenB stock arrives — no need to keep checking.
22 High Street, Standish, Wigan WN6 0HL — accessible from across Wigan, Chorley and Lancashire.
While MenB supply is limited, our MenACWY vaccine (£60) is available to book today — covering four other strains.
Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Rabies, Yellow Fever and more — comprehensive travel and routine vaccination service.
Private. Discreet. Your health records are yours — no automatic sharing with employers or insurers.
Common Questions
Due to unprecedented demand across the UK, there is currently limited supply of the Meningitis B vaccine (Bexsero). This is a national supply issue affecting all private providers. Ready Health are working with suppliers to access further stock. Register on our waiting list and you'll be notified as soon as the vaccine is available to book at our Standish clinic.
Simply click the waiting list link on this page to register your details. Once MenB stock becomes available, we will contact you directly to arrange your appointment. There is no obligation and no payment required to join the list.
Most children aged 2 years and over, and adults, will need two doses given at least four weeks apart. Young infants may require a three-dose primary course — your clinician will discuss the appropriate schedule at your appointment based on age and medical history.
The NHS vaccinates babies against MenB as part of the childhood immunisation programme, but this only applies to children born on or after 1 July 2015. Those not covered by the NHS programme — including older children, teenagers and adults — can access the vaccine privately at Ready Health once supply is restored.
No. The MenB vaccine protects against Meningococcal group B only — which is the most common type in the UK. It does not protect against Meningitis A, C, W or Y. A separate MenACWY vaccine covers those strains and is currently available at Ready Health for £60.
Yes. The vaccine is suitable for children from 2 months old up to adults aged 50. It does not contain any live organisms. For young children under two, a dose of paracetamol after vaccination is recommended to help prevent fever — bring some to the appointment. Possible side effects include soreness at the injection site and mild fever, which typically resolve within 1–2 days.
The MenB vaccine (Bexsero) is estimated to protect against approximately 88% of the Meningococcal B strains circulating in England and Wales. It provides strong protection but does not cover every possible strain of MenB bacteria.
Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency. If you notice symptoms including a non-fading rash, sudden severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light or fever with cold hands and feet — call 999 or go to A&E immediately. Do not wait for all symptoms to appear. Early treatment is vital and can prevent irreversible brain damage or death.
Due to unprecedented demand, the MenB vaccine is currently in limited supply across the UK. Register your details and we'll notify you as soon as the vaccine is available to book at our clinic. No obligation — just peace of mind that you won't miss out.