Meningitis is an infection that affects the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges. There are various groups of meningitis, including bacterial, viral, parasitic, amoebic, chronic and non-infectious meningitis.
One type of bacterial meningitis is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. This bacterial meningitis is called meningitis B.
Symptoms can surface as soon as the individual gets infected with Neisseria meningitidis or within a week of exposure. As meningitis B can be fatal, patients should seek immediate medical attention if symptoms are suspected or displayed.
Symptoms of meningitis B in toddlers and babies may also include:
Studies have shown that meningitis B is more common in certain age groups:
The bacteria that causes meningitis is easily spread and highly contagious. Therefore, meningitis outbreaks are more likely to occur in locations where individuals live close to each other, such as college dormitories or military bases.
Other high-risk factors:
Neisseria meningitidis spreads through respiratory or throat secretions and by close contact with an infected individual. For example, from saliva or spit when coughing, kissing, or sneezing.
Certain lifestyle habits can also increase the risk of meningitis B infection. For example, sharing food, utensils and smoking devices.
The meningitis B vaccine, also known as the meningococcal B vaccine, is given to protect against the disease.
| Age Group | Primary Immunisation | Intervals Between Primary Doses | Booster |
| 2 months to 5 months | Two or three doses plus a booster | 1 - 2 months apart | Booster dose between 12 and 15 months |
| 6 months to 11 months | Two doses plus a booster | 2 months apart | Booster dose at least 2 months after the primary doses but before two years of age |
| 12 months to 23 months | Two doses plus a booster | 2 months apart | Booster dose 12 months to 23 months after the primary dose |
| 2 years to 10 years | Two doses | 2 months apart | Need for booster not established |
| 11 years to adults* | Two doses | 1-2 months apart | Need for booster not established |
*There is no data on adults above 50 years of age.
In Hong Kong, the meningococcal vaccine is not part of the government childhood immunisation program as the disease is not prevalent. This vaccine is only provided privately. You can see the entire Hong Kong childhood immunisation schedule here.
Reported side effects from the meningitis B vaccine include high fever within the 24 hours of receiving the vaccination, pain and swelling in the area of injection, as well as diarrhoea, feeling sick, crying, or irritability. However, these side effects are temporary. In the long term, the benefits of receiving the vaccine outweigh the temporary side effects.
Besides the vaccination, meningitis B can also be treated with antibiotics as it is a bacterial infection. The most appropriate antibiotics would be prescribed to the patient by the doctor for effective treatment.
At OT&P, we offer an extensive range of vaccinations and specialists to ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date. Contact us today to discuss the best vaccination plan. You can also see what vaccinations are required with our vaccine calculator.