What Does the MenB Vaccine Protect Against?
Meningococcal group B disease is one of the most feared bacterial infections in the UK, not because it is common, but because it can move from first symptoms to life-threatening illness within hours. The MenB vaccine was introduced into the NHS childhood immunisation schedule in 2015 and remains the primary tool for protecting against this strain of bacterial meningitis. This article explains what the vaccine covers, who is eligible, and how Maple Leaf Pharmacy can help those who want vaccination outside the standard NHS schedule. What Is Meningococcal Group B Disease? Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria meningitidis. It exists in several strains, identified by letters. Group B is responsible for the majority of bacterial meningitis cases in the UK. According to Meningitis Now and Meningitis Research Foundation , meningococcal group B accounts for roughly 60 per cent of all meningococcal cases in the UK. The disease can cause two distinct and seriou...