Confused about the meningococcal B vaccine? Here’s what you need to know

Meningococcal disease is any infection caused by meningococcal bacteria (Neisseria meningitides), and it is a rare but life threatening disease that can progress incredibly quickly.

There are 13 strains of meningococcal disease. You can be immunised against strains A, B, C, W, and Y, and the meningococcal ACWY vaccination is given for free at 12 months as part of the national immunisation schedule.

That leaves meningococcal B. 

The meningococcal B vaccine: who can get it?

When it comes to protecting your children against meningococcal, NSW Health says, “Any person from 6 weeks of age who wants to protect themselves against meningococcal disease is recommended to receive the two vaccines available in Australia.” 

“Infants and children under 2 years, adolescents, and people with certain medical conditions are strongly recommended to receive both meningococcal vaccines.” 

This includes meningococcal B.

According to the Australian Government Department of Health and The US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, young children are more at risk of developing meningococcal, so some parents choose to pay for the meningococcal B vaccine for their children if they aren’t eligible to receive it for free.

How much does it cost?

The meningococcal B vaccine is provided free under the National Immunisation Program for Aboriginal children up to 2 years of age, and for people with asplenia, hyposplenia, complement deficiency, or receiving treatment with eculizumab.

South Australian babies and children receive the vaccine for free through SA Health.

Other parents must pay for the vaccine.

If you choose to do this, you’ll need a script from your GP, and then you’ll need to pay for it yourself. The cost depends on the type and brand of vaccine, and where you buy it from, but it’s usually between $100 and $150 for each dose.

Your child will need a few doses to get the required protection, but it all depends on their age when they get the first vaccine, as well as the brand. Read the Australian Immunisation Handbook for guidelines on kids under 2 years.

Meningococcal B vaccine side effects

Better Health Victoria says the meningococcal B vaccine is effective and safe but like many medications, it can have some side effects. 

“Meningococcal B vaccine commonly causes fever, localised pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site,” says the website. 

Additionally, they say fever is a common side effect in children under 2 years of age when the meningococcal B vaccine is given.

“It is recommended to use paracetamol (15 mg/kg per dose) 30 minutes before every dose of meningococcal B vaccine given to children under two years of age or as soon as practicable.

“Be sure to give the paracetamol dose that is written on the bottle according to your child’s weight.”

For more information read the national immunisation program or talk to your health care worker, doctor, or nurse about the vaccine.