For US Residents

For US Residents

Facts about meningitis B

Facts moms and teens should know.

An uncommon but potentially fatal disease

Meningococcal group B disease (also known as meningitis B) is an uncommon but serious disease that is caused by a bacterial infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. It can also cause a severe infection of the blood called meningococcal septicemia.

Meningitis B can strike otherwise healthy people without warning and can progress quickly and be potentially fatal, sometimes within 24 hours. Up to 1 in 5 survivors will have long-term consequences, including brain damage, hearing loss and loss of limbs.

About 1 in 10 people infected with meningitis B could die, sometimes within 24 hours

How you can get meningitis B

The bacteria that cause meningitis B live within the nose and throat and can be spread through close contact such as coughing, kissing or sneezing.

Certain everyday behaviors can increase the risk of getting meningitis B, particularly for teens and young adults, including:

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Living in close quarters

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Sharing drinks, eating utensils and smoking devices

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Coughing and sneezing

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Kissing

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Smoking

About 1 in 10 young adults carry the bacteria,* usually without symptoms, and may spread it to others

*In rare cases, the bacteria can invade the body and lead to meningococcal disease.

Symptoms of meningitis B

Initial symptoms can be confusing and similar to those of the flu. However, symptoms can progress rapidly and can lead to death, sometimes within 24 hours.

Symptoms may include:

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Sudden fever

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Headache

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Stiff neck

Additional symptoms may include, among others, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity of the eyes to light, confusion, and a rash (typically dark purple spots on the torso, arms, or legs).

If you are experiencing these symptoms or if you have been in close contact with someone who has meningitis, please contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Millions of teens and young adults are not vaccinated against meningitis B

Recent cases and outbreaks of meningitis B

The majority of meningococcal disease cases (including meningitis B) are sporadic in nature, although occasionally outbreaks can occur, often at colleges/universities.

From 2011 to 2019, there were 50 cases of meningitis B, including 2 deaths, at colleges or universities in the following states: Rhode Island, California, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Oregon, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and New York.

Recent cases and outbreaks of meningitis B in the United States of America

Moms are getting the word out against meningitis B. Teens are getting BEXSERO.

Ask your teen’s healthcare provider if vaccination with BEXSERO is right for them.

Approved Use & Safety Info

Approved Use

Important Safety Information About BEXSERO

Approved Use

BEXSERO is a vaccine approved for 10- through 25-year-olds to prevent meningococcal group B disease (also known as meningitis B) caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria.

Important Safety Information About BEXSERO

  • Anyone who is allergic to the ingredients of BEXSERO or who had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose should not receive BEXSERO
  • The tip cap of the prefilled syringe may or may not be made with natural rubber latex. Natural rubber latex may cause allergic reactions
  • Fainting can happen after getting BEXSERO. Sometimes people who faint can fall and hurt themselves. For this reason, your healthcare provider may ask you to sit or lie down for 15 minutes after receiving BEXSERO
  • BEXSERO may not protect all vaccine recipients
  • Some individuals with weakened immune systems may have reduced immune responses to BEXSERO
  • Individuals with certain complement deficiencies and individuals receiving treatment that inhibits terminal complement activation (for example, eculizumab) are at increased risk for invasive disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B even after being vaccinated with BEXSERO
  • The most common side effects are pain, redness or swelling at the injection site; fatigue; headache; nausea; and muscle pain
  • Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding
  • Ask your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of BEXSERO. Only a healthcare provider can decide if BEXSERO is right for you or your child
You are encouraged to report vaccine adverse events to the US Department of Health and Human Services.
Visit www.vaers.hhs.gov to file a report or call 1-800-822-7967. You may also file a report with GSK at gsk.public.reportum.com or 1-888-825-5249.
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