Meningococcal meningitis is a rare, but devastating disease. Roughly 1 in 10 people who contract it die, and can do so within 24 to 48 hours from the start of symptoms. Survivors may face severe consequences, such as loss of arms or legs, brain damage, or hearing loss, even with proper treatment.1,2 Here, you can learn how to help protect yourself and your loved ones.
Be meningitis smart.
Vaccination may not prevent meningococcal disease in all individuals. Like all vaccines, meningococcal vaccines may have side effects. Persons should consult their healthcare providers to determine if they have a condition that precludes them from receiving a vaccination or to learn more about meningococcal vaccination.
References:
- Poland GA. Prevention of meningococcal disease: current use of polysaccharide and conjugate vaccines. Clin Infect Dis. 2010;50(suppl 2):S45-S53.
- Pelton SI. Meningococcal disease awareness: clinical and epidemiological factors affecting prevention and management in adolescents. J Adolesc Health. 2010;46:S9-S15.
- Thompson MJ, Ninis N, Perera R, et al. Clinical recognition of meningococcal disease in children and adolescents. Lancet. 2006;367:397–403.
- Granoff DM, Harrison LH, Borrow R. Meningococcal vaccines. In: Plotkin SA, Orenstein WA, Offit PA, eds. Vaccines. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2008: 399–434.
- Yeh SH, Lieberman JM. Update on adolescent immunization: pertussis, meningococcus, HPV, and the future. Cleve Clin J Med. 2007;74:714–727.
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