Menactra and Bexsero are immunisations which help protect against meningococcal disease caused by groups A, C, Y, W and B.
Funded Menactra and Bexsero for SOME 13 to 25 year olds
13 to 25 year olds who are soon going to be in their first year of living in tertiary education halls, boarding school hostels or military barracks can have these vaccines for free.
Call us on 04 478 9858 to make an appointment with the nurses.
Meningococcal disease is one cause of meningitis which is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes (meninges) covering your brain and spinal cord. The swelling from meningitis typically triggers symptoms such as headache, fever and a stiff neck. It is a serious illness that requires medical attention.
Following is further information about meningococcal disease and unfunded vaccines. Please read if you would like to know more.
For any age group who would like to be protected with Menactra – groups A,C,Y and W, it is available at a cost of $129.00 and one dose is recommended.
Bexsero is available at a cost of $136.00 for each vaccine. It is recommended to have two Bexsero vaccines eight weeks apart.
Being vaccinated against meningococcal disease is highly recommended for the following groups who are more at risk:
- children younger than 5 years old have a higher risk of viral meningitis
- babies and toddlers under the age of 2, and adults over the age of 50 have a higher risk of bacterial meningitis. Meningococcal meningitis tends to occur mostly in adolescents and young adults, as well as young children.
- people living in a community setting such as students living in dormitories, people on military bases, children in boarding schools and child care facilities, and those living in overcrowded housing.
- people with a weakened immune system such as people with diabetes, alcoholism, or AIDS, or anyone who has had their spleen removed or who has a poorly functioning spleen.
For more information please see the following websites:
https://www.healthnavigator.org.nz/health-a-z/m/meningitis/
To discuss or book an appointment, please call 04 478 9858.
Bexsero Update – this is a recent update for children who have had one or two doses of Bexsero
The Booster dose information for Bexsero has changed. If your child is in this category please call to discuss a booster dose.
- For infants from 12 months to 23 months (inclusive) – a booster is given 12-24 months after the second dose.
