Vaccination Services - Meningococcal B

Serogroup B is one of the most common causes of meningococcal disease in Australia, and it is not covered by the four-in-one MenACWY vaccine. The meningococcal B vaccine fills that gap, and for some groups it is free.

What is meningococcal B, and the vaccine?

Meningococcal disease can be caused by several “serogroups” of the bacteria. The MenACWY vaccine covers A, C, W, and Y, while a separate meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine is needed to protect against serogroup B, a leading cause of cases, particularly in young children and adolescents. As with all meningococcal disease, it can progress very fast and be life-threatening, so prevention matters. MenB is given as a course of doses, with the number depending on age.

Who is it for, and who gets it free?

MenB is free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP) for certain groups, which include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander infants and young children and people with specified medical conditions that increase their risk. For others, including many healthy infants, adolescents, and young adults who want the added protection, MenB is available as a private (paid) vaccine on advice. Because it protects against the common B strain, many families choose to have it even when it is not funded; ask the pharmacist or your GP.

Getting it at a pharmacy

Trained pharmacist immunisers may provide MenB to eligible people above the state minimum age. The pharmacist screens you, confirms the right schedule for the age, administers the vaccine, observes you for around 15 minutes, and records it on the Australian Immunisation Register. Infants and young children on a MenB course are usually managed through a GP or clinic.

A note on side effects in young children

MenB vaccines commonly cause fever, especially in infants and young children, more so than many other vaccines. For this reason, paracetamol is sometimes recommended around the time of infant MenB doses to reduce fever; your immuniser or GP will advise. Other side effects (sore leg or arm, irritability) are usually mild and brief. Knowing the warning signs of meningococcal disease, and acting fast, remains important even after vaccination.

Safety

MenB has a strong safety record. Aside from the fever noted above, side effects are generally mild and short-lived. Tell the pharmacist about severe allergies or past reactions.

How it’s regulated in Australia

The meningococcal B vaccine is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and funded for specific groups under the National Immunisation Program, with private access for others. Pharmacist immunisers administer it under state and territory rules and record doses on the Australian Immunisation Register, guided by the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

Official sources

• Healthdirect: meningococcal disease
• National Immunisation Program schedule

MenB covers the strain MenACWY does not. Use the button below to find a pharmacy offering meningococcal B vaccination near you, and ask whether you are eligible for a free dose.