Meningitis (Meningococcal)

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, which can lead to severe and life-threatening conditions such as meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord) and septicemia (blood poisoning). The disease can progress rapidly and is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Vaccination is a key preventive measure against meningococcal disease, with several vaccines available that target different serogroups of the bacteria.

The meningococcal vaccine is crucial in reducing the incidence of this potentially devastating disease. Infants and children aged under 2 years old are recommended to receive the meningococcal vaccine schedule to cover the prevalent strains (serogroups) A, C, W, Y and B. Vaccination comes in the form of 2 vaccine types:

  • The meningococcal A,C,W and Y vaccine is given in 2 doses at 12 months of age and between 14 to 16 years of age.
  • The meningococcal B vaccine is given as 2 or 3 dose, depending on age of the first dose and can be given from as early as 6 weeks of age.

The National Immunisation Program (NIP) schedule currently funds the meningococcal A, C, W and Y vaccine for all children and the meningococcal B vaccine for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. The meningococcal B vaccine is also available on the private market. Speak with our qualified pharmacists to confirm if you or child is eligible to receive their vaccination at your local WholeLife pharmacy.

By preventing meningococcal infections, these vaccines protect individuals and contribute to broader public health efforts to control and eliminate outbreaks.

The Benefits of Meningococcal Vaccination

  1. Prevention of Severe Disease: Meningococcal vaccines help prevent severe infections such as meningitis and septicemia, which can lead to permanent disabilities, neurological damage, or death.
  2. Protection for High-Risk Groups: Vaccination is particularly important for individuals at higher risk, including infants, children and adolescents, those with certain medical conditions, and travellers to endemic areas, ensuring they are protected from potentially fatal outcomes.
  3. Reduction in Disease Transmission: By vaccinating a large proportion of the population, the spread of meningococcal bacteria is reduced, contributing to herd immunity and protecting those who cannot be vaccinated.
  4. Public Health Impact: Widespread vaccination helps control outbreaks and contributes to the overall public health goal of reducing the incidence of meningococcal disease globally.

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WholeLife Pharmacy & Healthfoods offers a comprehensive vaccination service.

Please contact your local WholeLife to book this vaccine.

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FAQs

What is the meningococcal vaccine?

The meningococcal vaccine protects against Neisseria meningitidis, which causes meningitis and septicemia

Who should get the meningococcal vaccine?

The vaccine is recommended for infants, children, adolescents and young adults, as well as special risk groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are most at risk if exposed during outbreaks.

Are there any side effects of the meningococcal vaccine?

Common side effects may include redness or pain at the injection site, mild headache, and fatigue. These effects are mild and often resolve on their own. Younger children who receive the meningococcal B vaccine (particularly between 2 to 12 months of age) may develop a fever soon after vaccination, which will generally subside after 3 days. Your immunisation provider may advise to give your child a prophylactic dose of paracetamol prior to your scheduled appointment, to help reduce a fever. Both meningococcal vaccines have been shown to be safe and effective. Serious side effects are rare.

Can adults receive the meningococcal vaccine?

Yes, adults at increased risk of meningococcal disease, such as those with certain medical conditions, laboratory workers, or those traveling to high-risk areas such as Saudi Arabia, should consider getting a booster dose and keeping their vaccination up to date.

What should I do if a scheduled dose is missed? I

If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible. Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure the vaccination schedule is completed.

How effective is the meningococcal vaccine?

The vaccine is highly effective in preventing meningococcal disease caused by the targeted serogroups. However, no vaccine offers 100% protection, so maintaining high vaccination coverage is important for community protection.