About the Meningitis B Vaccine
When Should You Get the Meningitis B Vaccine
We recommend getting the meningitis B vaccine as early as possible if you are at increased risk. This includes babies, teenagers, young adults and those living in shared accommodation such as university halls. The meningitis B vaccine for university students in the UK is often advised before starting term, especially if you have not been vaccinated before.
Our specialised nurses will assess your medical history and risk level to advise on the best timing.
Vaccine Schedule
The meningitis B vaccine is given as an injection in the upper arm or thigh, depending on age.
The schedule varies by age:
-Children (2–10 years): 2 doses at least 2 months apart
-Adolescents and adults: 2 doses at least 1 month apart
The vaccine used is typically Bexsero, a non-live vaccine that helps protect against meningitis B.
Our specialised nurses will confirm the most suitable schedule based on your age and risk.
Booster Requirements
Routine boosters are not always required after completing the meningitis B vaccine course. As the vaccine is relatively new, recommendations may vary depending on individual risk.
Our specialised nurses will advise if further doses are needed.
How the Meningitis B Vaccine Is Given
The vaccine is administered as an injection during your appointment. It is an inactivated vaccine.
Your consultation typically lasts around 15 minutes and includes:
-A review of your medical history
-A risk assessment
-Personalised vaccination advice
How Long Does the Meningitis B Vaccine Last
The duration of protection is still being studied. Current evidence shows strong protection after completing the full course, though booster needs may vary depending on risk.
Our specialised nurses can confirm whether your protection is up to date.
Possible Side Effects
Most people tolerate the meningitis B vaccine well. Meningitis B vaccine side effects are usually mild and short-lived.
Possible side effects include:
-Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
-Moderate to high fever, particularly in babies
-Headache
-Tiredness
-Muscle aches
Who Can Have the Meningitis B Vaccine
The vaccine is suitable for:
-Infants and children
-Teenagers and young adults
-University students
-Travellers to higher-risk areas
-People with certain medical conditions
-Individuals with incomplete vaccination history
Your medical history will be reviewed to ensure the vaccine is safe and appropriate.
Risk If You Contract Meningitis B
Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection affecting the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis B symptoms can include sudden fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, sensitivity to light and confusion. A rash may appear as the infection progresses.
The disease can develop quickly and may lead to complications such as brain damage, hearing loss or death if not treated urgently.
Vaccination provides effective protection.
Our London Travel Clinics
We have four central London travel clinics in Liverpool Street, London Bridge, High Street Kensington, and Mayfair, convenient for anyone living or working in the city. We are open early mornings, lunchtimes, evenings, and weekends, providing all essential travel vaccinations and medications.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Meningitis B Vaccine
Meningitis B is a serious bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B. It affects the lining of the brain and spinal cord and can also lead to blood poisoning (septicaemia). The infection can develop rapidly and may become life-threatening.
Meningitis B spreads through close contact with an infected person, including coughing, sneezing, kissing or sharing drinks and utensils. The bacteria live in the nose and throat and can be carried without symptoms.
Meningitis B symptoms can include fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, sensitivity to light, confusion, and cold hands and feet. A rash may appear in later stages. Symptoms can develop quickly and require urgent medical attention.
The meningitis B vaccine is recommended for babies, children, teenagers and young adults, as well as those at increased risk. It is also commonly advised for students and people living in shared accommodation.
The meningitis B vaccine for university students in the UK is often recommended, especially for those living in halls of residence where infections can spread more easily.
The meningitis B vaccine is highly effective and provides strong protection after completing the full course. It significantly reduces the risk of serious infection.
The schedule depends on age. Adults and adolescents usually need 2 doses given at least 1 month apart. Children may require 2 doses spaced further apart. Your nurse will confirm the correct schedule.
Protection develops after completing the full course. Each dose increases your level of protection, which is why it is important to complete the schedule.
The duration of protection is still being studied. Current evidence shows strong protection after vaccination, but booster requirements may vary depending on risk.
Meningitis B vaccine side effects are usually mild and short-lived. These may include pain at the injection site, fever, headache, tiredness and muscle aches.
The vaccine provides strong protection but does not cover all strains of meningococcal bacteria. Vaccination greatly reduces the risk of severe disease.
No. Meningitis B is caused by a different strain of bacteria. The meningitis B vaccine protects only against group B, while the ACWY vaccine protects against groups A, C, W and Y.
Yes, the meningitis B vaccine can usually be given alongside other vaccines if clinically appropriate. This is often helpful for travellers or students.
The vaccine may not be suitable for people who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or any component of the vaccine. Your nurse will review your medical history before vaccination.
The meningitis B vaccine is available free on the NHS for babies under 1 year as part of the routine childhood vaccination schedule. It is not usually free on the NHS for anyone else and is commonly accessed privately.
You can get the meningitis B vaccine in Central London at London Vaccination Clinic. We offer appointments at our Liverpool Street, London Bridge, Kensington and Mayfair clinics.
