Some parents are not yet aware of the dangerous consequences associated with meningitis disease. According to the CDC, more than 2000 people catch bacterial meningitis leading to 500 deaths every year.
Some of those who recover have to face permanent or long-term disabilities such as deafness, nervous system issues, and so on. That’s why parents need to understand the importance of meningococcal vaccination. Unfortunately, it’s the babies who are at the highest risk of catching meningitis.
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is primarily caused by the Neisseria meningitides bacteria which is also known as meningococci. It can result in sepsis, pneumonia, myocarditis, and many other illnesses. These are deadly and require immediate hospital care. However, there are many other bacteria or viruses responsible for meningitis disease like:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae
- Group B Streptococcus
- Haemophilus influenza
- Listeria monocytogenes
- Escherichia Coli
- Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Meningitis attacks the inner lining of the brain and spinal cord. Eventually, it results in inflammation and then the chances of brain damage arise too.
Can meningococcal vaccination prevent it?
Some parents are always skeptical regarding the efficiency of any vaccine. The fact is, every vaccine is efficient in dealing with a particular disease. Similarly, meningococcal vaccination works too in saving your child from exposure to bacteria and viruses. You may need to get a booster dose if you are traveling to a region where meningitis is common.
What are the symptoms of meningitis?
When anyone catches this disease, the following symptoms are observed in the infected person:
- Headache
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stiff Neck
- Photophobia
How to prevent the spread of meningococcal meningitis infection?
Vaccination is the first and the most important thing to do. Other than that, you have to avoid coming in contact with the infected person. This disease is transmitted from one person to another through droplets. So try not to indulge in smoking or kissing. In addition, sneezing or coughing around the infected individual can also be dangerous. If possible, avoid social gatherings, especially in risky areas.
Vulnerable Group for Meningitis
- Infants
- Travelers
- Microbiologist
- Older adults
- People dealing with an underlying medical problem
Side Effects of Meningococcal Vaccination
Although meningococcal vaccination is safe and effective, you are still going to face some side effects such as:
- Pain at the injection spot
- Redness accompanied by swelling
- Fever
- Headache
These will go away on their own without doing anything. However, your doctor may advise some medicine so take it as instructed.
What to do after missing meningococcal vaccination in childhood?
Missing your meningitis vaccination shot during childhood can put you at risk irrespective of your age. The meningitis-causing bacteria can target people of all ages but children are most prone to suffer from it.
Even unvaccinated young people have to be careful and do everything to avoid getting exposed to meningitis bacteria.
Consult your doctor if you haven’t completed the series of meningitis doses. He or she will check your health history and provide the doses as per your age.
Conclusion
Legionella, whooping cough, HPV, hepatitis A, B, and C are frightening in their own right, but it is meningitis that is the scariest. Being a parent, if you understand the importance of meningitis vaccination, your child can stay protected for a long time from the disease. Because when it strikes, the infection can be extremely fatal.
Other than getting your children vaccinated, you should also get a booster dose if anyone in your family is infected. Talk to your doctor today if you have any confusion regarding meningitis vaccination. And remember, it’s an effective way to save a life and not just part of routine vaccination.
