MenB Vaccine Procedure

The MenB vaccine, also known as the meningococcal B vaccine, is a vaccination used to protect against meningitis and sepsis caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B (MenB). This bacterium can cause severe and potentially life-threatening infections.

Indications

The MenB vaccine is recommended for:

• Individuals aged 10-25 years, with a particular emphasis on those in this age group who are at increased risk of MenB disease, such as college students living in dormitories.
• People with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of meningococcal disease, including those with spleen damage or dysfunction, HIV infection, or taking medications that weaken the immune system.
• Microbiologists and laboratory workers who are routinely exposed to Neisseria meningitidis.

Administration

The MenB vaccine is administered via intramuscular injection, typically in a series of two or three doses, depending on the specific vaccine product and the individual's risk factors. The most common schedules are:

• Two doses, with the second dose given at least one month after the first dose.
• Three doses, with the second dose given one or two months after the first dose, and the third dose given six months after the first dose.

Vaccine Products

There are two MenB vaccine products available in the United States:

• Bexsero (GlaxoSmithKline): a two-dose series, with the second dose given at least one month after the first dose.
• Trumenba (Pfizer): a three-dose series, with the second dose given one or two months after the first dose, and the third dose given six months after the first dose. A two-dose schedule is also approved for individuals aged 16-23 years.

Contraindications and Precautions

The MenB vaccine should not be administered to:

• Individuals with a history of severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine or to a previous dose of the vaccine.
• Pregnant women, unless the benefits outweigh the risks and there is no suitable alternative.

The MenB vaccine should be used with caution in individuals with:

• Immunocompromising conditions, such as HIV infection or taking medications that weaken the immune system.
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), as the risk of GBS may be increased after vaccination.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Common side effects of the MenB vaccine include:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
• Fatigue.
• Headache.
• Muscle or joint pain.

Less common adverse reactions may include:

• Fever.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Dizziness or fainting.

Efficacy and Effectiveness

The MenB vaccine has been shown to be effective in preventing invasive meningococcal disease caused by serogroup B. Studies have demonstrated that the vaccine is approximately 80-90% effective in preventing MenB disease after two or three doses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the MenB vaccine?
The MenB vaccine protects against meningitis B, a serious infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B.

Who should receive the MenB vaccine?
Typically recommended for individuals aged 10-25 years, and certain high-risk groups, such as those with weakened immune systems.

How many doses of MenB vaccine are needed?
Usually 2 or 3 doses, depending on the brand and age of the recipient.

What are the common side effects of the MenB vaccine?
Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, fatigue, headache, and muscle or joint pain.

Can the MenB vaccine be given with other vaccines?
Yes, it can be administered with other recommended vaccines, but the specific schedule may vary.

Is the MenB vaccine effective?
Studies suggest that the vaccine is approximately 80-90% effective in preventing meningitis B disease.

How long does protection from the MenB vaccine last?
Duration of protection is not fully known, but booster doses may be necessary to maintain immunity.

Are there any contraindications to receiving the MenB vaccine?
Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or component of the vaccine, and certain other rare conditions.

Can pregnant women receive the MenB vaccine?
The vaccine can be given to pregnant women who are at increased risk of meningitis B disease, but the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Is the MenB vaccine required for college students?
Some colleges and universities may require or recommend the vaccine for incoming students, especially those living in dormitories.