In today’s world, especially during this pandemic. People are afraid to take the risk of getting a shot. But, aside from the Covid-19 vaccine that we should get, it is also important for us to know what other vaccines we should get for us to fight today's diseases. What is Meningococcal Vaccine? These are vaccines that help prevent Meningococcal disease, which is any type of illness caused by Neisseria meningitides bacteria. These bacteria spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions like spit (e.g., by living in close quarters, kissing). Meningococcal disease can include meningitis a serious, potentially life-threatening inflammation of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord -- and/or a life-threatening blood infection. Meningococcal disease can cause limb loss through amputation, hearing loss, problems with the nervous system, intellectual disability, seizures, and strokes.
Signs and symptoms of the meningococcal disease usually start suddenly and include fever, headache, and a stiff neck. It can start with symptoms similar to influenza (flu). Often people with the meningococcal disease also have nausea, vomiting, increased sensitivity to light, rash, and confusion. There are 2 types of meningococcal vaccines: Meningococcal conjugate or MenACWY vaccines and Serogroup B meningococcal or MenB vaccines. All 11 to 12-year-olds should get a MenACWY vaccine, with a booster shot at 16 years old. Teens may also get a MenB vaccine, preferably at 16 through 18 years old. While any teen may choose to get a MenB vaccine, certain preteens and teens should get it if they: Have a rare type of immune disorder called complement component deficiency. Are taking a type of medicine called a complement inhibitor (for example, Soliris® or Ultomiris®). Have a damaged spleen or their spleen has been removed and Are part of a population identified to be at increased risk because of a serogroup B meningococcal disease outbreak.
Fortunately, meningococcal disease is preventable, and the key to prevention is the meningococcal vaccine. Meningococcal bacteria are only passed from person to person by regular close, prolonged household or intimate contact with infected secretions from the back of the nose and throat. Meningococcal disease is uncommon but serious. It usually takes the form of a blood infection (septicaemia) or infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord (meningitis). Cliché may seem like prevention is always better than cure. Meningococcal disease is uncommon, but it is a serious disease. To all teens out there maybe it’s time to consider getting a meningococcal vaccine now. It’s better for you as you are the hope of the future.
ZS DMO II Karla P. Calapardo, RND
REFERENCES:
- https://www.cdc.gov/meningococcal/index.html
- https://www.webmd.com/children/vaccines/meningococcal-vaccine
- https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mening/index.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mening/public/index.html
- https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/meningococcal-disease
