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    Meningococcal B

    Protects against meningitis type B.

    Protects against

    Meningitis type B

    Validity

    Duration of protection still being studied

    Schedule

    2-3 doses depending on age

    Side effects

    Usually mild

    About Meningococcal disease type B

    Meningococcal B causes the same serious conditions as other meningococci: meningitis and blood poisoning. Type B is the most common type of meningococcal disease in the Netherlands.

    How is it transmitted?

    The bacteria spreads through droplets from nose and throat, especially with close contact such as kissing, living together or coughing.

    Symptoms

    High fever
    Severe headache
    Stiff neck
    Light sensitivity
    Confusion
    Skin rash (red/purple spots that don't fade under pressure)
    Vomiting

    Possible complications

    • Permanent brain damage
    • Deafness
    • Loss of limbs
    • Learning disabilities
    • Death (10-15%)

    Risk areas

    Worldwide, especially in temperate climatesStudent housing and boarding schoolsAreas with outbreaks

    Risk groups

    Students moving into student housingPeople without a functioning spleenPeople with certain immunodeficienciesPeople in close contact with meningococcal patients

    About the vaccination

    Vaccine type

    Recombinant vaccine

    How does it work?

    The vaccine contains proteins from the meningococcal B bacteria that train your immune system to recognize the bacteria.

    ⏱️ When to vaccinate?

    At least 2 weeks before departure.

    ✓ Effectiveness

    Estimated 70-80% against meningococcal B.

    Who should get this vaccination?

    • Students going to study abroad
    • People at increased risk of meningococcal infections
    • People without a functioning spleen
    • During outbreaks as directed by public health authorities

    Not suitable for

    • People with severe allergic reaction to previous dose or components
    • People with severe acute illness

    Possible side effects

    Fever, local reactions, irritability.

    💡 Good to know

    This vaccine is different from the ACWY vaccine and provides protection against a different type of meningococcus.

    Book an appointment?

    Contact us for personal advice about your vaccinations.

    Personal care

    We respect your preferences. You can choose a male or female practitioner.

    Short waiting time

    Usually available within a week. Call for urgent appointments.

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