Bexsero is the vaccine we offer at VSM Pharmacy which protects against meningococcal B, (Meningitis B) This blog will tell you how it works, who can have the vaccination and if there are side-effects.
Meningitis B is one of six main strains (there are 12 in total) of an infection called Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus). The main strains are:
It is a bacterial meningitis that can also cause septicaemia (Sepsis). Both meningitis and sepsis are life-threatening infections. Babies, young children and teenagers are the most vulnerable groups at risk.
The bacteria are spread through close contact, from kissing and sharing drinks or, in the case of teenagers, vapes. It attacks the lining of the brain causing inflammation. Sepsis, which is blood poisoning, often occurs with meningitis B.
Sepsis damages blood vessels and decreases the amount of oxygen that flows to the skin and major organs which causes damage to tissue and skin, and sometimes organ failure or limb loss.
The first symptom is usually feeling like you are coming down with flu. You might have joint or muscle pain, a headache and develop a fever. You might also have a rash and a stiff neck.
Yes. Especially if any of the above symptoms become more severe, you can’t breathe normally, you begin vomiting or have diarrhoea, are unable to stand bright light and your hands and feet are very cold.
If you have a rash, do a glass test. Press a clear glass tumbler on the skin where the rash is located. If you can see the spots clearly through the glass, you need to get urgent medical help.
Bexsero helps to protect you from MenB. When you have the vaccination, your body’s immune system reacts by producing antibodies. If the MenB bacteria then enters your body in the future, these antibodies will recognise it and help your immune system fight the infection.
You will need two doses. You must wait at least four weeks after the first dose before you have the have the second dose. It is the second dose which provides the best level of protection.
Yes. some people have tenderness or see redness and swelling where the injection went into your skin. You might also get a headache, nausea, a mild fever or muscle pains but these effects normally disappear after 1 or 2 days. Over the counter pain killers like paracetamol will help.
The vaccine is available at the pharmacy. You can book online through the travel clinic, or by calling on 01276 21002. You can also come into the pharmacy and talk to a member of staff.
The vaccine is suitable for children from the age of 2 years old.
 Each dose is £140 so the full course will cost £280.
Yes. We also offer a vaccination against Meningitis ACWY which is one dose and is suitable from 6 months old. Â
Now VSM Pharmacy has a travel clinic that offers help, advice and of course travel vaccinations Our latest article gives you all the information you need to get your vaccinations organised before your trip.
Cholera can be dangerous for some people and so we recommend you visit our Travel Clinic for a Cholera Vaccination.
