• 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?

What side effects may be seen after the immunisation?

In the studies conducted into this vaccine, no serious adverse effects were seen and all age groups tolerated the vaccine well. The most common reactions seen were:

• redness and swelling at the site of the injection
• mild fevers
• irritability
• headaches.

About half of all babies who have the vaccine may become irritable, and around one in 20 may get a mild fever.

Other side effects reported have been:

• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• faints.

As with all vaccines there is a rare possibility of the MenC causing anaphylaxis.

The number of reactions such as fevers was no higher with the MenC vaccine than with other vaccinations given to children at the same ages, while the rate of local reactions such as redness and swelling appears to increase with age.

If you think your child has had any reaction to the MenC vaccine that you are concerned about, then talk to your doctor, nurse or health visitor.