Getting the MenB vaccine done privately: What you need to know

Meningococcal Group B (MenB) is one of the leading cause of meningitis and septicaemia in Ireland, and yet Bexsero, the new vaccine that has been developed to prevent against the disease, is only available privately.

"The MenB vaccine is not currently part of the Childhood Immunisation Scheme, the final decision to fund the inclusion of a new vaccine into the childhood immunisation schedule would be made by the Department of Health," according to the HSE.  

Bexsero received its European licence in January of 2013, and has been praised for its ability to prevent children from dying or living with serious disabilities as a result of MenB.

For those who would like to get the vaccine privately, Bexsero is available on private prescription through your GP or by asking your pharmacist to order it for you.

If you are considering going down this route, here's what you need to know: 

1. Firstly, talk to your GP and ask if you can get it done privately. 

2. They will either give you a prescription to order it in from the chemist OR they may order it directly from the vaccine company themselves. Usually there is a higher cost because of delivery if the doctor orders it to the surgery. 

3. The morning you are getting the injection done, go to chemist and collect it – it must be refrigerated so do the collection just before going to the doctor. 

4. The number of injections varies by age of child. Booster is required at least once if not twice.

5. Arm will be sore after getting it. 

6. It  costs about €156.00 per injection from pharmacy. However, the pharmacy may waive dispensing fee if you ask as you will also need to pay the doctor a fee to inject each time. 

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