Meningitis B Vaccination
Protect Against Meningococcal Group B Disease
Meningococcal group B (MenB) disease is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and septicaemia (blood poisoning). The illness can develop rapidly and become life-threatening within hours, making vaccination one of the most effective ways to help protect against this potentially devastating disease.
At Vantage Pharmacy & Travel Clinic, we offer private Bexsero® (Meningococcal Group B Vaccine) vaccinations for eligible individuals, providing a convenient and professional service delivered by experienced healthcare professionals.
What is Meningococcal Group B Disease?
Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. Group B is the most common cause of meningococcal disease in the UK.
Although uncommon, the disease can progress extremely quickly and may result in:
- Meningitis
- Septicaemia (blood poisoning)
- Permanent brain damage
- Hearing loss
- Limb amputations
- Death
Early symptoms can resemble flu, making early diagnosis difficult. Vaccination provides valuable protection before exposure occurs.
What is Bexsero®?
Bexsero® is a vaccine designed to help protect against meningococcal group B bacteria. It works by stimulating the body's immune system to produce protective antibodies, reducing the risk of developing invasive MenB disease. Bexsero® has been extensively studied and is licensed for use from 2 months of age.
Who Should Consider Vaccination?
Private MenB vaccination may be suitable for:
- Babies and young children
- Teenagers and young adults
- University students living in shared accommodation
- Individuals who wish to reduce their risk of meningococcal disease
- People with certain medical conditions that increase their risk (following specialist advice)
- Travellers where vaccination has been recommended
Our pharmacist will assess your suitability before vaccination.
Vaccination Schedule
The number of doses required depends on your age at the time of vaccination.
Your pharmacist will advise you on the appropriate schedule during your consultation.
What to Expect
Your appointment includes:
- A clinical consultation
- Assessment of your medical history
- Advice about the vaccine
- Administration of the Bexsero® vaccine
- Aftercare advice
- Documentation of your vaccination
Appointments are typically completed within 20–30 minutes.
Possible Side Effects
As with any vaccine, side effects are usually mild and temporary.
Common side effects include:
- Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site
- Mild fever (particularly in young children)
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle or joint aches
- Irritability or reduced appetite in infants
Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare. Our trained healthcare professionals are fully equipped to manage medical emergencies should they occur.
Why Choose Vantage Pharmacy & Travel Clinic?
- Experienced pharmacist vaccinators
- Convenient appointment times
- Private consultation room
- Professional clinical assessment
- Competitive pricing
- Personalised vaccination advice
- Trusted local healthcare provider
We are committed to providing safe, convenient, and high-quality vaccination services to help protect you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MenB vaccine part of the NHS vaccination programme?
The NHS routinely offers MenB vaccination to babies as part of the childhood immunisation schedule. However, older children, teenagers and adults are not routinely eligible and may choose to receive the vaccine privately.
Can adults receive Bexsero®?
Yes. Bexsero® is licensed for individuals from 2 months of age onwards. Adults who wish to reduce their risk of meningococcal group B disease may choose private vaccination following assessment.
Can I receive other vaccines at the same appointment?
In many cases, yes. Our pharmacist can advise whether additional vaccines can be administered during the same visit.
How long does protection last?
Current evidence shows that Bexsero® provides important protection against MenB disease. The duration of protection varies between individuals and age groups, and recommendations may change as further evidence becomes available.
Book Your Meningitis B Vaccination
Protect yourself or your family against meningococcal group B disease with a private Bexsero® vaccination at Vantage Pharmacy & Travel Clinic.
Contact our team today to book an appointment or to discuss whether the MenB vaccine is suitable for you.
