Meningitis B Vaccination
Protect yourself and your loved ones with the Meningitis B vaccine, available at Cleckheaton Pharmacy. Our professional team is here to provide a safe, effective, and convenient vaccination service.
What is Meningitis B?
Meningitis B is caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B, which can lead to severe brain and spinal cord infections. It primarily affects infants, young children, and teenagers, but anyone can contract the disease. The infection spreads through close contact, such as coughing, sneezing, and kissing.
Symptoms of Meningitis B
High Fever
Severe Headache
Vomiting
Stiff Neck
Sensitivity to Bright Lights
Rash (non-Blanching, use the Glass Test)
Confusion or Delirium
Cold hands and feet
Extreme Drowsiness or Difficulty Waking
Seizures
Urgent Warning Signs: A distinctive purple rash that does not fade when pressed (a late-stage symptom)
Meningitis B Vaccine Transmission & Prevention
Meningitis B spreads through close contact with an infected person. It is transmitted via:
- Respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing
- Saliva exchange, such as kissing or sharing drinks and utensils
- Close and prolonged contact with an infected person, especially in crowded environments like dormitories
- Direct contact with respiratory or throat secretions
Carriers of the bacteria may not always show symptoms but can still spread the infection to others.
The most effective way to prevent Meningitis B is to get vaccinated. The Meningitis B vaccine is composed of inactivated components derived from group B meningococcal bacteria, rather than the entire bacterium. As these components are not live, the vaccine cannot cause infection. However, it effectively stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies, equipping the body to recognise and eliminate the bacteria. This immune response provides protection against.
High-risk Areas for Meningitis B
Sub-Saharan Africa
- Senegal
- Mali
- Burkina Faso
- Niger
- Chad
- Sudan
- South Sudan
- Ethiopia
Europe
- Spain
- France
- Italy
Other Countries
- United States (US)
- United Kingdom (UK)
- Ireland
- Canada
- New Zealand
- Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Arabia
Ready to Protect your Health?
Why Choose Us
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The Outcome
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Commonly Asked Questions
Is the meningitis B vaccine free on NHS?
The Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine is offered free of charge on the NHS to infants as part of the routine immunisation schedule. Babies receive doses at 8 weeks, 16 weeks, and 1 year old. However, it is not routinely available for older children, teenagers, or adults unless they are at increased risk due to specific medical conditions.
How much does the meningitis B vaccine cost?
The cost of the private meningitis B vaccine depends on the healthcare provider and the number of doses. For example, at Cleckheaton Pharmacy, we offer it for £100.
Is the meningitis B vaccine necessary?
The MenB vaccine protects against meningococcal group B bacteria, which can cause serious illnesses like meningitis and septicaemia. While infants are routinely vaccinated, older children and adults are not typically offered the vaccine unless they are at increased risk. Individuals should assess their personal risk factors and consult with a healthcare professional to make an informed decision about vaccination.
Do university students need the meningitis B vaccine?
All university students should get vaccinated against meningitis. Most UK students have had the MenACWY vaccine between 13 and 15 years old and the MenB vaccine as an infant.
Who is eligible for the meningitis B vaccine?
The MenB vaccine is routinely offered on the NHS to babies at 8 weeks, 16 weeks, and 1 year old. Additionally, individuals with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of meningococcal disease, such as asplenia or splenic dysfunction, are also eligible for the vaccine. Others who wish to receive the vaccine can do so privately.
