Childhood vaccine
Hib/MenC Vaccine
The Hib/MenC vaccine is a booster given at around 1 year to protect against Haemophilus influenzae type b and meningococcal group C.
What it protects against
It protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), a cause of meningitis and other serious infections, and meningococcal group C (MenC), another cause of meningitis and septicaemia.
Who it's for
Babies at around 1 year of age, as a booster following the earlier Hib protection given in the 6-in-1 vaccine.
How it works
It contains parts of both bacteria linked to a carrier protein, boosting the immune system’s protection built up from earlier doses.
Safety
Safety and side effects
It is safe and well tolerated, with mild effects such as redness or swelling at the injection site and a possible raised temperature, which pass quickly.
Education and reference only. This is general information, not a personal recommendation, and does not list doses — follow the current NHS schedule and your clinician's advice. Seek urgent help for signs of a serious allergic reaction after any vaccine.
Answers
Hib/MenC Vaccine: frequently asked questions
Why is a Hib booster needed at one year?
The protection from the early Hib doses in the 6-in-1 vaccine fades over the first year, so a booster at around 12 months tops up immunity to keep young children protected against serious Hib infections.
Is this the same as the MenB vaccine?
No. Hib/MenC protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b and meningococcal group C, while MenB protects against meningococcal group B. Together they cover different causes of meningitis.
Related
Other childhood vaccines
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Vaccinations
- UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) — the Green Book
- WHO — immunization
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