Meningitis Vaccine

Meningococcal disease is a serious illness caused by a bacterium. It the leading cause of bacterial Meningitis in children 2-18 years old in the U.S. Meningitis is an infection of the brain and spinal cord coverings. Anyone can get Meningococcal disease, and about 2,600 people are infected each year in the U.S. College freshmen, particularly those who live in dormitories, have a slightly increased risk of getting Meningococcal disease.

The Meningococcal vaccine is not effective in preventing all types of the disease but it can prevent 2 of the 3 important types of the Meningococcal disease in older children and adults. Drugs such as Penicillin and Cipro can be used to treat Meningococcal infection. College freshmen, and other college students who choose to be vaccinated (especially those living in dormitories) should discuss the risks and benefits of vaccine with their health care provider.

People who are mildly ill, or pregnant at the time the shot is scheduled can still safely receive the vaccine. People with moderate or severe illnesses should usually wait until they recover to be vaccinated. Some people who get the Meningococcal vaccine have mild side effects such redness or pain at the injection site. These symptoms usually last for 1-2 days.