Meningococcal disease relates to any disease induced by Neisseria meningitidis, also known as meningococcus. Often these diseases are serious and can be fatal. They include brain and spinal cord lining diseases (meningitis) and diseases of the bloodstream (bacteremia or septicemia).
These bacteria spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions like spit (e.g., living in close quarters, kissing). Doctors use antibiotics to treat meningococcal disease, but it is extremely vital to receive prompt medical attention. The best defense against meningococcal disease is to keep up to date with recommended vaccines.
The meningococcal vaccines protect against meningococcal disease, which can lead to bacterial meningitis and other serious infections.
Vaccines can help prevent meningococcal disease, which is any type of illness caused by Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. There are 2 types of meningococcal vaccines available in the United States:
• Meningococcal conjugate or MenACWY vaccines (Menactra® and Menveo®)
• Serogroup B meningococcal or MenB vaccines (Bexsero® and Trumenba®)
A meningococcal conjugate vaccine should be given to all ages 11 to 12, with a booster dose at the age of 16. A serogroup B meningococcal vaccine may also be given to adolescents and young adults (16 to 23 years of age). In addition, CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for other kids and adults at greater risk of meningococcal disease.
Immunization Schedule
Vaccination with meningococcal conjugate vaccine is recommended:
• when kids are 11 or 12 years old, with a booster given at age 16
• for teens 13–18 years old who haven’t been previously vaccinated
Those with their first dose between 13–15 years of age should receive a booster dose between 16–18 years of age. Teens who receive their first dose after age 16 (such as earlier unvaccinated college freshmen residing in dorms or those entering the army) will not need a booster dose.A full series of the meningococcal conjugate vaccines should be given to kids and teens who are at higher risk for meningococcal disease (even if younger than 11 years old), including those who:
• live in or travel to countries where the disease is common
• are present during an outbreak of the disease
• have certain immune disorders. If the immune disorders are chronic, these kids also need a booster dose a few years later, depending on the age at which the first dose is given.
The sequence and dosage will depend on the child’s age, medical condition, and vaccine brand. Some types of meningococcal vaccines can be given as early as 8 weeks of age.
Kids 10 years and older with these risk factors also should get a full series of the MenB vaccine.
Those who have their first dose between 13-15 years of age should receive a booster dose between 16-18 years of age. Teens who receive their first dose after age 16 (such as previously unvaccinated college freshmen living in dorms or those entering the military) will not need a booster dose.
Why the Vaccines Are Recommended
Vaccines can help prevent meningococcal disease.
There are two types of meningococcal vaccines available in the United States: The meningococcal conjugate vaccine protects against four types of bacteria very effectively, while the MenB vaccine protects against a fifth strain.
Possible Risks
Some of the most common side effects are swelling, redness, and pain at the site of the injection, along with headache, fever, or tiredness. Severe problems, such as allergic reactions, are rare.
When to Delay or Avoid Immunization
The vaccine is not recommended if:
• your child is currently sick, although simple colds or other minor illnesses should not prevent immunization
• your child has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of meningococcal vaccine, to the DTaP vaccine, or to latex
Caring for Your Child After Immunization
In the area where the shot was given, your child might have a fever, soreness, and some swelling and redness. Check with your doctor to see if you can treat pain or fever with either acetaminophen or ibuprofen and find out the appropriate dose.
A warm, damp cloth or heating pad on the site of the injection may help to reduce soreness as it can move or use the arm.
When to Call the Doctor
• Call if you aren’t sure if the vaccine should be postponed or avoided.
• Call if there are problems after the immunization.
The content of this post is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, or as a substitute for the medical advice of your physician.