Why your child should get the meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine

The meningococcal B (MenB) vaccine helps protect against meningitis and sepsis (blood poisoning) caused by meningococcal bacteria B.

Meningococcal bacteria B is now the cause of most cases of meningococcal disease in Scotland. Although this infection isn’t common, it’s extremely serious and can lead to permanent disability and death. The meningococcal bacteria can also cause local outbreaks in nurseries, schools and universities.

Meningococcal bacteria B infection is most common in babies and young children. This is because their immune systems aren’t yet fully developed to fight off infection. Vaccinating babies on time helps protect them before they’re at highest risk of developing MenB disease.

About meningitis

Meningitis is inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. This causes pressure on the brain resulting in symptoms like:

severe headache
stiff neck
dislike of bright light
drowsiness
convulsions/fits

Meningitis can progress very rapidly and can lead to:

deafness
blindness
epilepsy
learning difficulties

It can even lead to death.

About sepsis

Sepsis happens when bacteria enters the bloodstream. It can trigger a life-threatening infection response that can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and death.

The signs of cold hands and feet, pale skin, vomiting and being very sleepy or difficult to wake can come on quickly.

Vaccinating your baby helps protect them

Babies can develop these serious conditions from birth, so it’s important to protect them as soon as possible.

Vaccination protects us all

When you’re vaccinated, you’re helping to protect the health of the whole community.

When enough people are vaccinated, it’s more difficult for serious diseases to spread to those who are not vaccinated. This is called ‘herd immunity’ or ‘population protection’.

Herd immunity is important because people with some severe medical conditions and allergies cannot have certain vaccines. By getting vaccinated, you’re helping to protect them too.

Getting your baby vaccinated is your choice

It’s recommended that your baby gets the MenB vaccine. It’s the best way to protect your baby from serious disease. However, it’s your choice if you want your baby to have the vaccine or not.

If you’re not sure that you want your baby to get the vaccine, you can still attend the appointment. It’s a good opportunity to ask healthcare professionals questions about the vaccine, and discuss any concerns you may have. You can still choose not to get your baby vaccinated. Healthcare professionals will respect your decision.