Meningitis B?
The term meningitis B comes from the abbreviation MenB. We avoid the use of this term as it is incorrect and can cause confusion.
The word “Men” is an abbreviation for the word meningococcal, not meningitis as is often mistaken. Meningitis and meningococcal are not exactly the same.
Meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Meningococcal refers to a type of bacteria that can cause meningitis. There are different groups of meningococcal bacteria, for example meningococcal group B which is commonly abbreviated to MenB (other groups include MenA, MenC, MenW and MenY).
What is the MenB vaccine?
The MenB vaccine helps to protect against disease caused by meningococcal group B (MenB) bacteria. MenB is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the UK. The vaccine used in the NHS routine immunisation schedule is called Bexsero and made by the pharmaceutical company GSK.
Who is offered the MenB vaccine?
The MenB vaccine has been offered to babies born on or after 1st May 2015. Most people born before this date will not have been offered the MenB vaccine through the NHS routine immunisation schedule. It is also recommended for people with certain long-term health conditions who are at greater risk. These include individuals with no spleen, or a spleen that does not work properly, sickle cell anaemia, coeliac disease and complement disorders (an immune disorder).
How effective is the vaccine?
There are many different MenB strains. This vaccine has been developed to offer protection against as many as possible.
Since the introduction of this vaccine in 2015, cases of MenB disease have reduced by half in babies. The MenB vaccine also offers some protection against other strains of meningococcal disease, including MenW.
No vaccine will offer complete protection from meningitis. Remaining vigilant is vital.
How many doses are required?
Babies receive three doses: at 2 and 4 months and a booster at 12 months of age. Anyone receiving the vaccine over the age of 2 years only requires 2 doses.
It is vital that all doses are given, as protection following one dose is limited.
Can this vaccine cause meningitis?
No, the MenB vaccine is not a live vaccine and cannot cause meningitis.
Are there any side-effects?
As with all vaccines, side-effects can occur and are usually short-lived (24 – 48 hours). The most common side-effects include tenderness and swelling at the injection site, fever, irritability, vomiting and/or diarrhoea.
MenB and paracetamol
High rates of fever have been reported in infants receiving the MenB vaccine with their other routine immunisations. Use of paracetamol has been advised for infants at the time of immunisation, to prevent fever. You will be given instructions on the use of paracetamol at your appointment.
Can I get this vaccine privately?
Yes. A variety of pharmacies, travel clinics and private GP practices offer this vaccine. Prices vary, so you may wish to contact more than one provider before making your choice. Expect to pay at least £100 per dose (a minimum of two doses are required).
Some GP surgeries may be able to help, so you may wish to ask at your GP surgery first. However, NHS contracts may prevent GPs being able to offer private treatment to their own patients.
I have heard that there is another MenB vaccine
Another MenB vaccine, called Trumenba, has recently been licenced for use in Europe and the UK. This vaccine has been developed by Pfizer and is licenced for use in adults and children over the age of 10. This vaccine is available through private providers.
Do you have further questions?
Contact our Helpline on 0808 80 10 388 or email helpline@meningitisnow.org