Tasmania launches free meningococcal B vaccination program for infants
From 1 July 2026, all eligible Tasmanian infants can access free vaccination against meningococcal B disease through a new state-funded immunisation program.
The Tasmanian Government has invested $4 million to provide free meningococcal B (MenB) vaccination for infants from 6 weeks of age up to 2 years, including a catch-up program for children born on or after 1 July 2025.
Previously, many families could only access the vaccine through a private prescription. The new program removes this cost barrier, improving access to protection against one of the most serious vaccine-preventable diseases affecting young children.
Why meningococcal B vaccination is important
Meningococcal disease is a rare but potentially life-threatening bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis. It can progress rapidly and may lead to meningitis, septicaemia (blood poisoning), permanent disability or death.
Infants and young children are among those at highest risk of invasive meningococcal disease.
Early symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Severe headache
- Rash
- Muscle pain
- Confusion
Babies and young infants may present differently and can become drowsy, difficult to wake, unusually irritable, floppy or refuse feeds.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent meningococcal disease.
Who is eligible?
Under the new Tasmanian program, the meningococcal B vaccine is available free of charge for:
- Infants from 6 weeks of age up to 2 years
- Catch-up vaccination for children born on or after 1 July 2025
The vaccine is available through participating general practices and selected local council immunisation clinics across Tasmania.
National Immunisation Program
The new Tasmanian initiative complements existing National Immunisation Program (NIP) funding.
Under the NIP, meningococcal B vaccination is already funded for:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander infants
- People of any age with specified medical conditions that increase their risk of invasive meningococcal disease
The meningococcal ACWY vaccine continues to be funded nationally for:
- Children at 12 months of age
- Adolescents aged 14–19 years
People who are not eligible for funded vaccination may still choose to receive meningococcal ACWY and meningococcal B vaccines through private prescription after discussing vaccination with their healthcare provider.
The introduction of Tasmania’s universal infant meningococcal B program represents an important step in expanding access to protection against this serious disease and reducing the burden of invasive meningococcal disease in young children.