The vaccines > Men C > FAQs

• Who should have the immunisation?
• What should I do if I suspect my child has meningococcal disease?
• How is the vaccine given?
• How long does the vaccine protect for?
• What side effects may be seen after the immunisation?
• What if my child becomes unwell after receiving the MenC vaccine?
• Why does my child need three doses of the vaccination?
• What about other strains of meningococcal disease?
• Can this vaccine be given to immunocompromised individuals or those with HIV?
• Can I take my baby swimming after their MenC immunisation?

Who should have the immunisation?

All babies should receive three doses of MenC vaccine by injection as part of their primary immunisation course at 3 and 4 months of age, with a further booster dose of Hib/MenCvaccine at 12 months.

Unimmunised babies between 5 months and a year need onlytwo doses at least one month apart to be fully protected, but may recieve 3 if given their other primaryimmunisations late.

Children and young people from 1 to 24 years old who have not previously been vaccinated should receive a single dose of MenC.