Meningococcal disease is caused by a bug called N. meningitidis. At least 12 groups have been identified, including groups A, B, C, X, Y and W. The pattern of disease caused by each group varies by time and country or geographical areas. Read more about meningococcal disease.
There are different meningococcal vaccines registered in Aotearoa New Zealand to cover the different meningococcal groups.
- Menactra® , MenQuadfi® or Nimenrix® overs groups A, C, W, Y
- Bexsero® covers group B
Bexsero is available on the childhood National Immunisation Programme
Bexsero is available for babies at 3 months, 5 months, and 12 months old. It will protect your pēpi (baby) against meningococcal B. Read more about Bexsero.(external link)
Tamariki and adults with high risk medical conditions
A meningococcal vaccine is free for groups of people with a high risk of meningococcal disease. This includes children, teenagers and adults with a weakened immune system and young people aged 13 to 25 in their first year of entering communal accommodation.
Menactra® , MenQuadfi®, and Bexsero® vaccines are free for people aged 13 to 25 years during their first year of living in boarding school hostel, university hall of residence, military barracks or prison, or 3 months before they move in.
From 1 July 2024, Nimenrix® is funded for eligible tamariki under 12 months of age as part of the special group programme. Read more about the meningococcal vaccine.