National Meningitis Association

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What is meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease is a rare but sometimes fatal disease that strikes adolescents and young adults. The disease progresses quickly and can have devastating complications, including hearing loss, brain damage, limb amputations and, in some cases, death.

What are the symptoms of meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease is often misdiagnosed as something less serious, as the symptoms often resemble the flu. Symptoms may include sudden high fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting and exhaustion. Some people also develop a rash after the disease has taken hold. Since symptoms progress quickly, it is very important that medical attention is sought immediately.

How is meningococcal disease spread?

The disease is spread through the exchange of respiratory droplets or close contact with an infected person, such as kissing, coughing or sneezing.

Who is at risk for meningococcal disease?

Anyone can get meningococcal disease, but adolescents and young adults are at increased risk for contracting the disease. In fact, adolescents and young adults account for nearly 30 percent of the estimated 3,000 cases of reported meningococcal infection in the U.S. However, a majority of meningococcal disease cases among adolescents are potentially vaccine-preventable.

Why are adolescents and young adults at risk for meningococcal disease?

Lifestyle factors common among adolescents and young adults are thought to be linked to the disease. These include:

Crowded living situations, such as dormitories, boarding schools and sleep-away camps
Move to a new residence or attendance at a new school or camp with students from geographically diverse areas
Active or passive smoking
Irregular sleep patterns

Can meningococcal disease be treated?

Yes. Once meningococcal disease is suspected or diagnosed, it is treated with high doses of antibiotics. Early treatment is essential to reduce the risk of death. However, because the disease can progress so quickly, early treatment does not guarantee a full recovery, which is why disease prevention is so important. Antibiotics should also be administered to those in close contact with a person who is diagnosed with meningitis.

Can meningococcal disease be prevented?

Yes. Immunization is the best way to help protect against meningococcal disease. Adolescents and young adults can reduce their risk by not sharing certain things, such as utensils and beverages, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Are there government recommendations for meningococcal disease vaccination?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine meningococcal vaccination with the conjugate meningococcal vaccine for adolescents ages 11-18. A good time to discuss meningococcal vaccination is during the pre-adolescent doctor’s visit at 11-12 years of age. Only one shot is required.

Can you get meningococcal disease from the vaccine?

No, you cannot get meningococcal disease from the vaccine.

Is the vaccine safe?

Yes, the vaccine is safe. As with all vaccines, there can be minor reactions, including pain and redness at the injection site, headache, fatigue or a vague feeling of discomfort. Immunization is not recommended if the individual has a compromised immune system or has a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Is the vaccine covered by health insurance?

The vaccine is covered by a majority of health insurance providers. You also can contact your local public health department to see if you qualify to receive the vaccine at no charge through programs like Vaccines for Children.

Where can I find more information?

National Meningitis Association, www.nmaus.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov
American College Health Association, www.acha.org
National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, www.nfid.org

Or for more information about the vaccine, consult your physician or local public health department.