Who is affected by France’s latest meningitis vaccination campaign?

Health authorities in north-west France are launching top-up vaccination campaigns against meningitis as cases in France continue to rise. 

An abnormally high number of meningitis cases – and deaths – were reported in France in January 2025, and although figures for February have not yet been released, the campaign suggests numbers may remain high.

If these continue at the same rate as those seen at the beginning of the year, historic annual highs will be reached around July. 

Read more: Meningitis cases in France are at ‘exceptionally high’ level

Deaths were recorded not only in young children but also teenagers and adults, prompting officials to be concerned that a particularly virulent strand is present. 

New campaign 

To tackle the issues, the Brittany Agence Régionale de Santé (ARS) is running a top-up vaccination campaign against the illness.

Currently it is the only region to run such a campaign but others may soon follow if the number of cases worsens.

The campaign mostly targets 15 - 24 year olds, with vaccination drives targeting schools and universities.

An estimated 100,000 people are being asked to have top-up jabs against the illness, with Rennes (Ille-et-Vilaine) a major hub of the cases seen so far this year. 

The top-up vaccines are free for all, but minors must be accompanied by a parent to the appointments. The vaccine is given in two doses at least four weeks apart. 

Meningitis vaccines for babies in France are mandatory for both the A/C/W/Y and B strands as of January 2025, however top-up vaccines are not mandatory for any age group.

They are strongly recommended for the A/C/W/Y strand, but not the ‘B’ strand for 11-14 year olds, with another between the ages of 15-24.

Information on where vaccines are available can be found through the Brittany ARS website, and there is a freephone number available at 0800 35 00 17.

Common symptoms of meningitis include a fever and severe headaches, often coupled with vomiting. 

If the fever is particularly high and does not go away, you notice the rapid-onset of red/purple spots, or you have difficulty speaking or hearing, you should immediately call emergency services.

Read more: Adult vaccines in France: check here that you are protected