Meningococcal group B vaccine

How it works

It contains recombinant meningococcal B surface proteins together with outer membrane vesicle antigens that elicit bactericidal antibodies against serogroup B strains expressing the relevant antigens.

Prescribing in practice

• Fever is common after infant doses, and prophylactic paracetamol is recommended around vaccination to reduce its incidence and severity per UK guidance.
• It is given as part of the routine infant schedule, and the recommended dosing course should be completed for optimal protection.
• It targets serogroup B and does not replace meningococcal ACWY or other meningococcal immunisation where indicated.

Monitoring

Observe for immediate hypersensitivity after administration and monitor for post-vaccination fever in infants.

Counselling the patient

• Fever is common after this vaccine in babies, and paracetamol is advised around the time of vaccination.
• Complete all the recommended doses for the best protection.
• Some redness or tenderness at the injection site is normal and settles.

Evidence & guidelines

UK guidance from the national immunisation programme recommends routine infant meningococcal B vaccination with prophylactic paracetamol to mitigate fever.