What happened: Teenagers and students in the UK have not been routinely vaccinated against the MenB strain responsible for a recent meningitis outbreak in Kent. Questions are being raised about whether this age group should be offered the vaccine.
Why it matters:
- Teenagers and young adults remain vulnerable to MenB infection during outbreaks.
- Vaccination policies affect public health strategies and outbreak control measures.
MNN Take: The MenB vaccine is currently not part of the routine immunisation schedule for older teens in the UK, which may leave some groups at risk during outbreaks. Health authorities evaluate vaccine use based on disease prevalence and age-related risk.
Sources: BBC Health (Lifestyle)