Meningitis is a disease that results from inflammation of the tissues lining the brain. Since the brain is such a vital organ, any inflammation or infection around it can directly or indirectly affect the brain with catastrophic consequences.

This inflammation can result from infections (bacterial, viral, or others) or other disease processes.

One of the common bacteria that can cause meningitis is the meningococcus bacteria. This can result in very serious and rapidly progressive disease if untreated or if the treatment is delayed and can result in death or severe neurological impairment.

Fortunately, potent vaccines are available that can prevent meningococci from entering the body or help the body deal with unwelcome intruders. 

Who should get the vaccine?

All adolescents should get this vaccine. Children and adults who are at risk of getting meningococcal disease should also receive this vaccine.

When should the vaccine be given to my child?

Adolescents

All children should get the vaccine between 11 – 12 years of age. Protection wanes over time; therefore, a booster at 16. (Center For Disease Control guidelines)

IAP (Indian Academy of Pediatrics) latest recommendation is one dose at nine months and one at twelve months of age.

Individuals at higher  risk

Any individual more than two months of age should receive a a primary schedule of two to four doses if:

• Immunosuppressed due to disease or drugs
• An outbreak of meningococcal disease in the community
• Specific occupations (like a microbiologist, a military recruit, or a first-time student living in a dorm)

If these individuals continue to be at higher risk after the primary series of vaccinations, they may require boosters every one to five years, depending on their circumstances.

Where can I get this vaccine?

This vaccine is freely available. Please get in touch with your healthcare provider.

Nathani Clinic has this vaccine in stock all the time. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for a free consultation.

Is the vaccine safe?

A vaccine, like any medicine, is capable of causing serious problems, such as severe allergic reactions. The risks associated with the vaccine are much less significant than those if one should contract meningococcal disease.

MILD REACTIONS:

About half of the people who received the shot had mild redness and soreness at the injection site, which usually improved within 1-2 days. Only a tiny percentage of people develop fever.

SEVERE REACTIONS:

Allergic reactions like hives and breathing difficulties occur only in rare cases, and the center where you receive the vaccine will have facilities to provide emergency treatment before shifting to a hospital in the improbable event that this should happen.