Meningococcal Group B Vaccine: What you need to know

Have you heard of the disease called 'Meningitis'? Perhaps a doctor has recommended this vaccine for your child or someone in your family. What exactly is this meningococcal B vaccine? What does it do? Is it safe? You probably have many questions like these in your mind. Don't worry, we will talk about all this simply today.

What is this meningococcal B vaccine?

Simply put, this is a vaccine that protects us from meningitis, a disease caused by a type of bacteria. Meningitis is a very dangerous condition in which the membranes surrounding our brain and spinal cord become infected and swollen. This vaccine targets a specific group of bacteria called Meningococcus group B, which causes it.

Here's something important you need to know. This vaccine is not made from live bacteria . It's a recombinant vaccine. That means you won't get meningitis just by getting this vaccine. What it does is train our immune system to recognize and fight that dangerous bacteria if it enters our bodies. It's like training an army before a war.

Things to tell your doctor before getting this vaccine

Before giving you this vaccine, the doctor will ask you a few questions. It is very important for your safety that you provide this information correctly.

• If you have a bleeding disorder.
• If you currently have a fever or other infection .
• If you have immune system problems (e.g. due to HIV, cancer medications).
• If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction to this vaccine or other medicines, foods, or dyes.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
• If you are a mother who is breastfeeding .

Talk openly with your doctor about anything like this.

How is the vaccine given?

This is an injection that is usually given into a muscle in your upper arm. It is given by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or a trained nurse, in a hospital or clinic. It is not a medicine that you can take home.

Before you are given the vaccine, you will be given a leaflet (Vaccine Information Statement) that contains details about this. Always read it carefully, as the information in it may be updated.

Is this vaccine given to children?

Yes. In some special cases, this vaccine may be recommended for children over 10 years of age . However, this decision should be made after talking to your pediatrician.

The important thing is that this vaccine does not protect against all types of meningitis. It only protects against group B bacteria. So it is important to be aware of other symptoms as well.

Let's be aware of the side effects.

Like any vaccine, this one can cause minor side effects. Most of the time, these are not serious and will subside in a day or two. But there are some things we need to be aware of.

What to do in an emergency?

This vaccine is very rare and can cause a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). However, if this happens, such as difficulty breathing and swelling of the face, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately .

Also, if you have any questions about this vaccine or any other medicine, you can call the National Poison Information Center at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I miss a dose?

It is very important to get all the doses prescribed to get the full protection from this vaccine. If you miss your scheduled dose, call your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule. Don't miss it.