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Explained in plain English

How does the MenB vaccine work?

The MenB vaccine, like the one offered to new university students, introduces tiny, harmless parts of the meningitis B bacteria to your body. This teaches your immune system to recognise and fight off the real bacteria if you encounter it. So, if you're exposed, your body is ready to protect you from the serious illness.

Stories that explain this

New university students urged to get MenB jab before autumn

Questions this opens up

What is an immune system? Are there other meningitis vaccines? How are vaccines developed?

Related explainers

What is MenB? Who pays for the jab? Why target new students? Why two doses? How do dry powder vaccines work? Why get preventative vaccines? What is an 'off-the-shelf' vaccine? Who pays for NHS vaccines?

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