Catch up on immunizations

Meningococcal disease

Dr. Jared Bullard Pediatric infectious disease specialist, Professor and Section Head for Pediatric Infectious Disease, and Director General of Medical Scientific Affairs at the National Microbiology Laboratory
Last updated: May 13, 2024

Share

Meningococcal disease, which includes one of the bacterial forms of meningitis, can be serious and doctors strongly recommend immunization as the best form of protection. 

Meningococcal bacteria can cause infection of the brain or blood, resulting in high fever, seizures, rash, intense headache and a stiff neck. A serious infection can result in death, even with prompt treatment. 

Approximately 10% of people who get the infection die, and up to 20% can suffer permanent effects such as brain damage, hearing loss, or amputation of arms or legs. 

Meningococcal disease is most common in children under age 5 and youth and young adults between 15 and 24 years old.

One in 5 healthy teens and adults are carriers of the bacteria, which can spread to others though coughing, sneezing, sharing food or other items, or kissing. 

The best way to protect yourself from meningococcal disease is by getting the vaccine. The vaccine is given with a needle. 

Who should get the Meningococcal Vaccine?

Generally speaking, everyone should receive two doses during their childhood. The vaccine is typically given at 12 months of age from a child’s doctor and then again in grade 6 with a school-based immunization program. 

Individuals should talk to their doctor first if they had a severe allergic reaction after receiving a previous dose of this vaccine or have allergies to the ingredients of the vaccine.

Some individuals may be at greater risk and can also receive the vaccine for free. This includes individuals with certain conditions that can make them immunocompromised, certain genetic risk factors, or individuals undergoing some cancer treatments. Talk to your doctor about whether or not a meningococcal vaccine is recommended for you. 

If you missed receiving this vaccine at the regular times, you may be able to get it to catch up. If you were born after 1995, you may be eligible depending on your vaccination history. 

If you aren’t sure if you received the vaccine, check your immunization history. You can ask your doctor to check, call your local public health office, or request your immunization record online through Manitoba Health.

Side effects

Some individuals experience mild side effects after receiving this vaccine. This includes pain, soreness, redness or swelling where the vaccine was given, fever or headache. These side effects generally last a day or two. 

In very rare circumstances, a severe allergic reaction can occur, including hives, heavy breathing, or swelling of the throat or face. This is why individuals are asked to remain in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving a vaccine, so they can be monitored for a serious allergic reaction.

Learn more

You can learn more about cervical cancer and screening from the resources below:

Vaccine Covered

Key takeaways

  • Meningococcal disease, or bacterial meningitis, is serious. 10% of people die from the infection and another 20% suffer permanent effects.

  • The vaccine is strongly recommended by doctors as the best form of prevention.

  • The vaccine is routinely offered at 12 months of age and in grade 6, but can be offered to others if missed.

  • Those most at risk include children under age 5 and youth and young adults between 15 and 24.

More on catch up on immunizations