Meningitis B Vaccinations in London
Protect yourself against Meningitis B
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Meningitis B – The Facts
What us Meningitis B?
The Meningococcal infection, the primary cause of Meningitis B in the UK, is caused by Neisseria Meningitis bacteria – a harmful bacteria that lives in the back of the throat.
How do you get Meningitis B?
It is a rare but devastating infection that is classified as a medical emergency. Meningitis b is transmitted via coughing, sneezing, kissing or close contact with an individual who is a carrier. It can present as septicaemia (blood poisoning) or meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain).
The symptoms associated with Meningitis B include:
• High fever
• Cold hands and feet
• Vomiting and/or refusal to eat
• Grunting and rapid breathing
• Drowsiness and unresponsiveness
• Pale skin with a blotchy red rash
• Bulging soft spot on the top of the head
• Stiff neck, sensitivity to light, & convulsions
Who can be affected?
This deadly disease can affect people of all ages, however roughly half of the patients diagnosed with the condition are under 5 years old , so early immunisation is essential.
Students aged 17-25 years are also particularly at risk, there have been several deaths in the UK attributed to Meningitis B in recent years, Working and Living together in large groups can raise the risks of contracting this disease.
Most Importantly…
- Have the Vaccines; a course of 2 or 3.
- If you suspect that you have caught Meningitis B, you should seek immediate medical attention and call 999.
Vaccination
Administration Method
The Vaccination for Meningitis B is about 88% effective in preventing Meningitis B.
Course
The course length and schedule is dependent on age those under two years of age need three vaccinations, those over two only need two vaccinations.
Length of Protection
As the vaccine is relatively new to the market, the length of duration has not yet been determined.
Special Instructions
Patients can be given the Meningitis B Vaccination from as early as two months old.
Dose & Price
A single dose is given at a cost of £171 per dose.
Side Effects
Very commonly, babies have a high fever after the first and second dose. For that reason, the NHS recommends calpol is given.
Other common side effects may include:
- Swelling, redness and soreness at the injection site
- Lack of appetite
- Restlessness and crying.
Additional Vaccinations
Chicken Pox
Rotavirus
Tuberculosis
FAQs
Can I get the vaccine on the NHS?
Only for children under 2.
Can anyone of any age have the vaccine?
Yes, in theory. However, there is no data for adults over 50 years of age so the vaccine would be given off license following a consultation to a certain need.
Does immunisation hurt?
What if I have an abnormal reaction?
How should I manage the high fever in my child?
The NHS offers advice for this as do our nurses on consultation, calpol is advised immediately after the first and second vaccination, dose by age of child.
Will I get a vaccination record card?
Meet the Team
Dr Elizabeth Tuckey
Kami Soltysik
Katy Peters
Dr Elizabeth Tuckey
Kami Soltysik