Picking up where we left off with Meningococcus, protecting against it. Many people are unaware of the vaccination that is available for it. Raising awareness is vital when it comes to increasing vaccination rates. Read on to learn more about the vaccine and its safety and protection.
Are the meningococcal vaccines safe?
- Yes
What are the side effects?
- Pain or redness at the site of injection
- Low-grade fever
It is important to note that they are not made from whole bacteria, so they can not cause bloodstream infections or meningitis.
Who should get the meningococcal vaccine?
- It is recommended for all 11- to 12-year-olds
- College freshman especially those living in dorms
- High-risk infants between 2 and 23 months of age
- complement deficiencies, those with no spleen or with a spleen that is not functional
- Those who live in an institution or in a community currently experiencing an outbreak
- One traveling to the Hajj or to a destination in Africa that is located in the meningitis belt.
How is the vaccine administered?
- The vaccine containing types A, C, W, and Y — is given in two doses. The first dose is recommended to be given between 11 and 12 years of age, and a booster dose is recommended at 16 years of age.
Does the meningococcal vaccine prevent all cases of meningitis?
- Neither of the meningococcal vaccines will prevent all cases of meningococcal meningitis since no vaccine is 100% effective.
- Other bacteria, such as pneumococcus and Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), cause meningitis.
- Some viruses also cause meningitis
