Meningococcal (meningitis) B - vaccination

What is Meningitis B?

Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B, one of the leading causes of bacterial meningitis in the UK. The bacteria spread through close contact with respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or prolonged face-to-face contact. The disease can cause meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), both of which can be life-threatening. Meningitis B affects people of all ages but is most common in infants, young children, teenagers and young adults — particularly those living in close-contact settings such as university halls of residence.

Symptoms of Meningitis B

Meningitis B symptoms can develop very quickly, often beginning with a high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea and vomiting — symptoms that can initially resemble flu. A distinctive non-blanching rash (a purple or red rash that does not fade when pressed) may develop in cases involving septicaemia, and is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Other symptoms include sensitivity to light, confusion, drowsiness and cold hands and feet. The disease can progress from early symptoms to life-threatening illness within hours. Bacterial meningitis has a fatality rate of up to 10% even with treatment, and survivors can be left with serious long-term complications including hearing loss, brain damage and limb loss.

Meningitis B Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to protect against Meningitis B. Bexsero is a vaccine that provides protection against the group B strain of Neisseria meningitidis, responsible for the majority of meningococcal cases in the UK. It is particularly recommended for individuals at increased risk, including students moving into shared accommodation, those with certain medical conditions, and anyone seeking additional protection in light of current public health guidance. Good respiratory hygiene and avoiding the sharing of items that come into contact with the mouth can also help reduce transmission.

MenB Vaccination Service

– Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which vaccine is used for the MenB Vaccination Service?

MenB Vaccination Service uses a vaccine called Bexsero®.

How many doses of Bexsero do I need?

A full course consists of two doses administered at least 4 weeks apart.

How is the vaccination given?

The vaccine is administered by intramuscular injection into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm. It

is advisable for you to wear a top with short or loose-fitting sleeves for the appointment.

Will I need a booster dose?

A booster dose can be administered at least two years (24 months) after the second dose, but this

is optional. If you are interested in the booster dose, please ask the vaccinator for more

information.

How effective is the vaccination?

The MenB vaccine is very effective. It's estimated that it protects against almost nine in every 10

types of meningococcal group B bacteria circulating in the UK*.

*https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/meningitis-b-vaccine

Does the vaccine have any side effects?

Although side effects are common, they’re usually mild – such as fever (a temperature greater

than 37.5° C) in children aged 10 years and under, and a headache and/or joint pain in those aged

11 years and upwards. A sore or red patch on the arm, where the injection has been given, is also

common. The healthcare professional will ask you to wait behind for five minutes after the

injection, just in case there are any immediate adverse reactions. It’s a good idea to keep an eye

on things and have a thermometer and paracetamol, if it’s suitable, at home, to help relieve a high

temperature, a headache or any general aches and pains if necessary. In some individuals, rare

side effects can happen. For more information about these, take a look at the Patient Information

Leaflet. The healthcare professional will also talk to you about possible side effects, prior to

vaccination.

Is it a live vaccine?

No, Bexsero® is an inactivated vaccine.

Does the vaccine contain egg?

No, there are no egg products in Bexsero®.

Is the vaccine suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

Very few vaccines are vegan and we are unable to guarantee that the vaccine is vegan friendly.

The vaccine appears to be suitable for vegetarians.

Is the vaccine suitable to have whilst pregnant or breastfeeding?

The MenB Vaccination Service isn’t suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Can I have the vaccine at the same time as other vaccinations?

Bexsero® can be given at the same time as other vaccinations.

Can I have the vaccine if I take certain medicines or have a health condition?

As part of the consultation, we’ll ask some questions about your medical history so that we can

check that the vaccine is suitable for you.

Can I get a MenB vaccination on the NHS?

The MenB vaccine is offered as part of the NHS vaccination schedule. It's given to babies at:

• 8 weeks

• 16 weeks

• 1 year

What are the symptoms of meningitis?

Meningitis

• Severe headache

• Sensitivity to bright lights

• Neck stiffness

• Nausea and vomiting

• Confusion and drowsiness

• Loss of consciousness

• Convulsions/seizures

Septicaemia

• Fever with cold hands and feet

• Joint or muscle pain

• Rapid breathing/grunting

• Stomach cramps and diarrhoea

• Red/purple rash, spots or bruises that don’t fade under pressure