Is there a vaccine to prevent meningococcal meningitis?
Yes, a safe and effective vaccine is available. The vaccine is 85% to 100% effective in preventing four kinds of bacteria (serogroups A, C, Y, W-135) that cause about 70% of the disease in the United States. The vaccine is safe, with mild and infrequent side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to 2 days. After vaccination, immunity develops within 7 to 10 days and remains effective for approximately 3 to 5 years. As with any vaccine, vaccination against meningitis may not protect 100% of all susceptible individuals.
There is a vaccine that will protect against some of the strains of meningococcus. For some college students, such as freshman living in dormitories, there is a modestly increased risk of meningococcal disease; students and parents should be educated about meningococcal disease and the availability of a safe and effective vaccine. The Meningococcal Meningitis vaccine is recommended in outbreak situations, and for those traveling to areas of the world where high rates of the disease are known to occur. For more information, contact your county health department.
