The Meningitis B vaccine is available in Birmingham at King’s Pharmacy, both privately and, for eligible groups, free on the NHS. Privately, this vaccine is highly recommended for babies aged 8 weeks, 16 weeks, and 1 year, helping protect your young baby against infection from meningococcal group B bacteria.
From 20th July 2026, free NHS MenB vaccinations are also available if you:
- Were born between 1st September 2007 and 31st August 2008, or
- Were born on or after 21st July 2001 and are starting university for the first time this autumn, or
- Were born on or after 21st July 2001 and are starting some residential further education colleges for the first time in autumn 2026 as a residential student
When you attend your NHS appointment, staff may ask which of these groups you fall into, so please bring your offer of a college or university place with you. For NHS appointments, you can contact our pharmacy to make a booking or use the NHS booking link below.
Meningococcal infections can be life-threatening, leading to complications and illnesses such as meningitis and sepsis (blood poisoning), so getting vaccinated, whether privately or through the NHS, is important.
Meningitis B vaccine safety
The Meningitis B vaccine can lead to some side effects, however, these are usually mild and don’t last too long. The vaccine has been repeatedly tested. Just over 8,000 people, including more than 5,000 babies and toddlers, have had the Meningitis B vaccine during various clinical trials to ensure its safety. There are hundreds of various strains of Meningococcal group B bacteria throughout the world. recent testing has suggested that the Meningitis B vaccine protects against 90% of strains in the UK.
How the Meningitis B vaccine works
The Meningitis B vaccine is made from three proteins found on the meningococcal bacteria, and this is combined with the outer membrane of one type of Meningitis B strain. These combinations work in sync and stimulate the immune system to protect against future exposures to meningococcal bacteria. Babies who receive the Meningitis B vaccine at the same time as the majority of the new born vaccinations at 8 and 16 weeks are likely to develop a high temperature or fever for 24 hours following. It’s vital to administer liquid paracetamol to your baby following the vaccination to reduce the risk of fever.
If you have any questions about the meningitis B vaccine available at King’s Pharmacy in Birmingham, feel free to contact us today!
