MenB (Bexsero) vaccine is to be funded from 1 March 2023. Resources and information are being updated but here are the key facts for you (below) and further detail is available on our fact sheet.
Training webinar:
IMAC and NIP presented a webinar on the MenB roll out on 22 Feb 2023, click here to view the recording.
Approval for use
Bexsero is approved for use from eight weeks and over.
Funded for use
Bexsero is funded for 2 doses and a booster for:
Bexsero is funded for 2 doses for:
Use for high risk patients remains unchanged.
National Immunisation Schedule - Primary course and booster
Routine childhood schedule: 3 months, 5 months and a booster at 12 months.
Approved alternative schedule (no prescription required): 8 weeks, 4 months and a booster at 12 months.
On time immunisation is essential for best protection. Do not delay the 6-week immunisation event.
Vaccine spacing
Paracetamol for children under 2 years
Prophylactic paracetamol is recommended for children under 2 years because of the risk of high fever, which is more likely when Bexsero is administered at the same time/visit as other vaccines.
Three doses of paracetamol (15mg/kg, using 120mg/5ml oral suspension) are recommended with 4 to 6 hours between each paracetamol dose, whether the child has a fever or not. (Maximum of four doses of paracetamol in 24 hours).
The first paracetamol dose administered up to 30 minutes prior to Bexsero administration.
The second paracetamol dose is given 4 to 6 hours after the first dose.
The third paracetamol dose is given a further 4 to 6 hours later.
In some circumstances (e.g., those enrolled in the PIPPA Tamariki Study) ibuprofen may be recommended as an alternative to paracetamol.
Bexsero should not be given to:
Specialist advice should be sought for:
IMAC resources:
These are being updated and will be provided here as soon as possible.
MedSafe datasheets
You can search for the latest datasheets on the MedSafe website here.
The datas sheets change over time so searching on the MedSafe site is the safest way to get the latest information.