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Clearly explained.

Meningitis B vaccine

MenB vaccination protects against important strains of meningococcal group B bacteria.

What is it?

Meningococcal B infection can cause meningitis and septicaemia, sometimes progressing rapidly despite treatment.

Where it may be relevant

  • Infants in the routine programme
  • People with particular medical or occupational risk
  • Individuals seeking private protection after an assessment

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Adult course

Adults and older children

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 2At least 1 month

Infant and young-child course

Age-dependent

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 2Age-dependent next dose
Dose 3Age-dependent booster

The number and intervals vary substantially by age at the first dose.

Who may be eligible

  • Adults and children from the selected product's licensed age
  • People whose age and previous doses allow an appropriate course

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination
  • Fever is particularly common in young children

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the MenB vaccine protect against?

It protects against meningococcal group B disease.

Who should consider the MenB vaccine?

It forms part of the infant programme and may be considered privately or for particular risk groups.

How many doses of the MenB vaccine are needed?

Adults commonly need two doses; infant and child schedules depend on age at the first dose.

Can I have the MenB vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the MenB vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.