Name of the Procedure:

Meningococcal Recombinant Protein and Outer Membrane Vesicle Vaccine, Serogroup B (MenB-4C), 2 Dose Schedule, Intramuscular Use
Common name(s): MenB Vaccine, Bexsero

Summary

The MenB-4C vaccine is an intramuscular injection designed to protect against meningococcal disease caused by serogroup B. It is administered in two doses, typically given one month apart.

Purpose

This vaccine aims to prevent meningococcal disease, particularly serogroup B, a serious bacterial infection that can lead to meningitis (inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord) and sepsis (blood poisoning). The goal is to induce immunity and reduce the incidence of these potentially life-threatening conditions.

Indications

• Individuals aged 10 years and older who are at increased risk for meningococcal disease.
• People in outbreak settings or those who travel to areas with a high incidence of serogroup B.
• Individuals with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of meningococcal disease, such as complement component deficiencies, functional or anatomic asplenia.
• Laboratory personnel exposed to Neisseria meningitidis.

Preparation

• No specific fasting or dietary restrictions are necessary.
• Inform healthcare providers of any allergies, current medications, or underlying health conditions.
• Review immunization history and ensure the individual has not received MenB-4C previously.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be seated comfortably with the upper arm exposed.
2. The healthcare provider will clean the injection site with an antiseptic wipe.
3. The MenB-4C vaccine will be drawn into a sterile syringe.
4. The vaccine is injected into the deltoid muscle of the upper arm.
5. A bandage may be applied to the injection site if needed.

Duration

The injection procedure itself takes only a few minutes, but the entire visit may last around 15-30 minutes to include pre-injection assessment and post-injection observation for any immediate reactions.

Setting

The vaccination is typically performed in an outpatient clinic, doctor's office, or public health facility.

Personnel

• Primary care physician or pediatrician
• Nurse or medical assistant trained in vaccine administration

Risks and Complications

• Common: Soreness at injection site, mild fever, tiredness, headache.
• Rare: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), fainting, high fever.

Benefits

• Provides protection against meningococcal serogroup B disease.
• Immunity usually develops within a few weeks after the second dose.
• Reduces risk of serious complications, including brain damage, hearing loss, or death from meningococcal disease.

Recovery

• Minimal downtime; patients can typically return to normal activities immediately.
• Monitor the injection site for signs of infection or severe reaction.
• Follow up with healthcare provider for the second dose, typically one month after the first.

Alternatives

• Alternative MenB vaccines such as MenB-FHbp (Trumenba).
• Each alternative has different dosing schedules and may vary in terms of age indications.
• Always consult a healthcare provider to choose the most appropriate vaccine.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel a brief pinch or sting at the injection site. Post-procedure, minor discomfort or soreness in the arm is common and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Most individuals can resume normal activities shortly after receiving the vaccine.