Protecting Our Community: The Importance of Mpox and MenB Vaccine

Over the past six months, WLQP has proudly hosted three vaccination pop-ups, helping to make Mpox and MenB vaccines more accessible to our local community. These events weren't just about jabs, they were about protection, prevention, and showing up for one another.

Why Mpox Vaccination Matters

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is a viral infection that can spread through close contact. While many cases are mild, Mpox can cause significant discomfort, complications, and in some cases require hospital treatment.

Vaccination is important because it:

• Reduces the risk of catching Mpox

• Lowers the severity of symptoms if infection occurs

• Helps prevent further spread within close-knit communities

• Protects those who may be more vulnerable

Targeted vaccination programmes have been a key public health tool in preventing wider outbreaks. By bringing vaccination directly into community spaces, we reduce barriers and make protection easier to access.

Why MenB Vaccination Is So Important

Meningococcal group B (MenB) is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can lead to meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) or septicaemia (blood poisoning).

MenB can progress rapidly and become life-threatening within hours. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect against it.

The MenB vaccine:

• Provides strong protection against meningococcal group B bacteria

• Helps prevent severe illness, long-term disability, or death

• Contributes to wider community protection

Even though cases are uncommon, the seriousness of the disease makes prevention absolutely vital.

Why Community Vaccine Pop-Ups Matter

Traditional healthcare settings don’t always work for everyone. Work schedules, stigma, access concerns, or simply not knowing where to go can prevent people from getting vaccinated.

By hosting three vaccine pop-ups in the last six months, WLQP has:

• Increased local access to trusted healthcare services

• Provided a safe and welcoming space

• Reduced stigma by normalising vaccination

• Strengthened partnerships with local health providers

• Helped protect not just individuals, but our whole community

Public health works best when it meets people where they are.

Looking Ahead

We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far, but this is just the beginning. Preventative healthcare saves lives, reduces pressure on NHS services, and builds stronger communities.

Thank you to everyone who attended, supported, and helped make these pop-ups possible.