Private Vaccination · All Branches
Meningitis B Vaccination
Protect against meningococcal group B with a private Meningitis B vaccination at Everest Pharmacy, available across all our branches. This bacteria is a leading cause of bacterial meningitis and septicaemia, serious infections that can become life-threatening. Vaccination is given following a clinical assessment.
Please note: there is currently a national shortage of Meningitis B vaccines and stock may be limited. Availability can change quickly, so please contact your nearest Everest Pharmacy branch to check current stock before visiting.
What is the Meningitis B vaccine?
The Meningitis B vaccine protects against meningococcal group B bacteria, a leading cause of bacterial meningitis in the UK. Meningitis causes inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord and can be life-threatening. The vaccine is part of the NHS childhood schedule and is also available privately for those who are not eligible or who want extra protection.
How does it work?
The vaccine trains your immune system to recognise and fight the bacteria:
Multiple doses may be needed depending on age to build full protection.
Who is it suitable for?
The Meningitis B vaccine may be suitable for:
Teens or adults who missed it
Travellers to high-risk regions
Certain medical conditions
University students in shared housing
A consultation at any of our branches will help confirm if vaccination is suitable for you.
Safety and side effects
The Meningitis B vaccine is widely used and regarded as safe and effective. A clinical assessment is always carried out before vaccination.
Common side effects
Serious side effects
Not suitable if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose, currently have a high fever, or have been advised against vaccination by a clinician. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or you notice swelling, difficulty breathing or a rash.
Meningitis B vs other meningitis vaccines
| Feature | Meningitis B vaccine | MenACWY vaccine |
|---|---|---|
| Protects against | Meningococcal group B | Groups A, C, W and Y |
| Common use | Babies, children, private patients | Teenagers, travellers, students |
| Availability | NHS and private clinics | NHS and travel clinics |
| Doses required | Multiple, depending on age | Usually a single dose |
Both vaccines may be recommended depending on your age, risk level and travel plans.
What to expect at your appointment
Book a consultation
Arrange an appointment at your nearest branch.
Medical assessment
A trained clinician checks the vaccine is suitable.
Vaccination
If suitable, the vaccine is given in-clinic.
Follow-up doses
We plan any further doses you need.
Aftercare advice
Clear guidance and monitoring after your visit.
How long does it take to work?
Protection usually begins within a few weeks of vaccination, but full immunity may require multiple doses. The timing depends on your age and schedule, and maintaining protection means completing the full course. Results vary between individuals.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get the Meningitis B vaccine privately?
Yes, it is available privately at Everest Pharmacy across all our branches, subject to a clinical assessment and stock availability.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary depending on the number of doses required. Please contact your nearest branch for up-to-date pricing.
Is it available on the NHS?
It is available on the NHS for babies as part of the routine immunisation programme. Older children and adults usually need to access it privately.
Do adults need it?
Some adults may benefit, particularly if they are at higher risk or travelling to certain regions.
How many doses are required?
This depends on age. Babies require multiple doses, while older individuals may need fewer.
Can you get meningitis after vaccination?
The vaccine significantly reduces the risk but does not protect against all strains of meningitis.
Book your vaccination
Arrange a consultation at your nearest branch and our team will guide you through every step. Please check stock availability before visiting.
This content is for information only and does not replace professional medical advice. Vaccination suitability is always confirmed through a clinical assessment at Everest Pharmacy, a UK-based, GPhC-registered pharmacy.
