From 5 March 2014, the recombinant multicomponent meningococcal B vaccine Bexsero® (4CMenB) became available through purchase on the private market. 4CMenB is registered for use in persons ≥ 2 months of age for the prevention of invasive disease caused by serogroup B meningococci.
For infants aged < 6 months of age, 3 primary doses of 4CMenB plus a booster at age 12 months are recommended. 4CMenB may be given at the same time as other infant vaccines administered under the National Immunisation Program, but must be given at separate injection sites. The first dose of 4CMenB may be administered as early as 6 weeks of age to align with the National Immunisation Program infant schedule. For older infants, adolescents and adults who the vaccine is recommended for, the dosing schedule varies based on age of first dose.
In clinical trials systemic reactions, including fever, were more common when 4CMenB was given concurrently with other infant vaccines, compared to when 4CMenB or other routine vaccines were administered alone. Therefore the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) recommends the prophylactic use of paracetamol with every dose of 4CMenB administered to children.
More detailed information regarding dosage and administration, recommendations for use and adverse events, including the use of prophylactic paracetamol, are provided in the ATAGI statement.