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Meningitis is a serious infection of the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Many bacteria, viruses, and fungi infect humans and cause this infectious disease. Bacterial meningitis is the most common type and can be life-threatening. These can be prevented with the meningitis vaccine.
How Effective is the Meningitis Vaccine?
Meningitis vaccines are very effective at preventing meningitis. The MenACWY vaccine is about 90% effective at preventing disease caused by the four serotypes it protects against. The MenB vaccine is about 70% effective at preventing disease caused by serogroup B meningococci.
There are two main types of FDA-approved meningitis vaccinations for children and adults available in the US:
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY): This vaccine’s immune response protects against four strains of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, and Y). It is the most common type of meningitis vaccine given in the US. It is recommended for all children starting at age 11 or 12 years old and for some adults.
- Meningococcal B vaccine: This vaccine protects against one serogroup B meningococcal bacteria, which is the most common cause of meningitis in young children.
Immunization programs recommend it for infants starting at age 2 months old and for some older children and adults. It is not as common as the MenACWY vaccine, but it is recommended for people who are at high risk of getting meningococcal B disease, such as college students and people with certain medical conditions.
College students are at increased risk of getting meningitis, so they should get the MenACWY vaccine at least two weeks before moving into a dorm or other shared living space. The MenACWY vaccine is given as a single shot, but some people may need two doses. Serious side effects from the MenACWY vaccine are very rare.
College students who have certain medical conditions, such as sickle cell disease or HIV/AIDS, may need to get the MenB vaccine in addition to the MenACWY vaccine.
Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two types of meningitis vaccines:
| Feature | Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) | Meningococcal B vaccine |
| Strains of bacteria protected against | A, C, W, and Y | B |
| Recommended for | Most people | People at high risk of getting meningococcal B disease |
| Side effects | Mild, such as pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site | Similar to MenACWY, but may also cause fever and headache |
| Price | Varies depending on the brand and location | Varies depending on the brand and location |
It is important to talk to your doctor about which meningitis vaccine is right for you. They will consider your age, medical history, and risk factors to make a recommendation.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about meningitis vaccines:
- Meningitis vaccines are not 100% effective, but they can help protect you from getting the disease.
- You may need to get more than one dose of the vaccine, depending on the type of vaccine you get.
- Clinical trials show meningitis vaccines are safe for most people, but there are some rare side effects.
- If you have any questions or concerns about meningitis vaccines, talk to your doctor.
The most common side effects of meningitis vaccines are mild and go away on their own within a few days. These side effects are not long-term and may include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
Can I Get Meningitis Even If I’m Vaccinated?
Yes, it is possible to get meningitis even if you are vaccinated. However, the vaccine will greatly reduce your chances of getting sick.
If I Get Meningitis, What Should I Do?
The immunization schedule for vaccination includes this vaccine. If you think you or your child may have meningitis, seek medical attention immediately. Meningitis is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly in a healthcare facility.
The Bottom Line
Meningitis vaccines are an important way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this serious disease. Talk to your doctor about wanting to get your college kid vaccinated to prevent this disease in college.
This is not a Moderna COVID-19 vaccine and neither is it like the Pfizer-biontech COVID-19 vaccines made from mRNA. The FDA allowed those under an “Emergency Use Authorizations” for the pandemic. However, mRNA vaccines for meningitis may very well become available in the near future.
Additional Information About the Meningitis Vaccine
In addition to the meningitis vaccines mentioned above, there are also vaccines that protect against specific types of meningococcal bacteria. These vaccines may be recommended for people who are at increased risk of getting meningitis caused by a particular serogroup.
If you have any questions about meningitis vaccines, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if you or your child are at risk for meningitis and recommend the best vaccination schedule for you.
It is important to talk to your doctor about which meningitis vaccine is right for you. They will consider your age, medical history, and risk factors to make a recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Meningitis and Meningitis Vaccine:
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Bacterial meningitis is the most common type and can be life-threatening.
What are the symptoms of meningitis?
The symptoms of meningitis can vary depending on the cause, but they often include:
- High fever
- Headache
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Nausea and vomiting
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Petechiae (small, red spots on the skin)
What causes meningitis?
Meningitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The most common cause of bacterial meningitis in the United States is Neisseria meningitidis, a bacterium that is spread through respiratory secretions. Other bacteria that can cause meningitis include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and Listeria monocytogenes.
How is meningitis spread?
Meningitis is spread through respiratory secretions, such as saliva, mucus, and droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The bacteria can also be spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.
Who is at risk for meningitis?
Anyone can get meningitis, but some people are at higher risk than others. These include:
- Children under the age of 5
- College students
- People who live in crowded or close quarters, such as college dormitories or military barracks
- People who travel to areas where meningitis is common
- People with certain medical conditions, such as sickle cell disease or HIV/AIDS
Is there a vaccine for meningitis?
Yes, there are vaccines available to protect against some of the bacteria that cause meningitis. The most common vaccines are:
- MenACWY vaccine: This vaccine protects against four types of meningococcal bacteria (A, C, W, and Y). It is recommended for all children starting at age 11 or 12 years old, and for some adults.
- MenB vaccine: This vaccine protects against serogroup B meningococcal bacteria, which is the most common cause of meningitis in young children. It is recommended for infants starting at age 2 months old and for some older children and adults.
Which meningitis vaccine is best for college students?
The MenACWY vaccine is the best meningitis vaccine for college students. It protects against four types of meningococcal bacteria that are common in the United States. College students should get the MenACWY vaccine at least two weeks before moving into a dorm or other shared living space.
When should college students get the meningitis vaccine?
College students should get the MenACWY vaccine at least two weeks before moving into a dorm or other shared living space. If they have not already been vaccinated, they should get the vaccine as soon as possible.
How many doses of the meningitis vaccine do college students need?
Most college students will need one dose of the MenACWY vaccine. However, some people may need two doses. Your doctor can tell you how many doses you need.
What are the side effects of the meningitis vaccine?
The most common side effects of the MenACWY vaccine are mild and go away on their own within a few days. These side effects may include:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
Serious side effects from the MenACWY vaccine are very rare.
Are there any serious side effects of the meningitis vaccine?
Serious side effects from the MenACWY vaccine are very rare. The most serious side effect is anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction. However, the risk of anaphylaxis is very low.
Can I get meningitis even if I’m vaccinated?
Yes, it is possible to get meningitis even if you are vaccinated. However, the vaccine will greatly reduce your chances of getting sick.
What should I do if I think I have meningitis?
If you think you have meningitis, seek medical attention immediately. Meningitis is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
How can I prevent meningitis?
The best way to prevent meningitis is to get vaccinated. Other ways to prevent meningitis include:
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick. This means staying away from people who have symptoms of meningitis, such as fever, headache, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light.
- Washing your hands frequently. This helps to remove germs from your hands that could cause meningitis.
- Not sharing personal items, such as drinking glasses and straws. This helps to prevent the spread of germs.
- Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. This helps to prevent the spread of germs through respiratory droplets.
- Eating a healthy diet and getting enough sleep. This helps to keep your immune system strong, which can help to fight off infection.
If you think you or someone you know may have meningitis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Meningitis is a serious disease that can be fatal if not treated promptly.
What are the costs of the meningitis vaccine?
The cost of the meningitis vaccine varies depending on the type of vaccine and the location where it is administered. The MenACWY vaccine typically costs $30-50 per dose. The MenB vaccine typically costs $100-150 per dose.
Where can I get the meningitis vaccine?
The meningitis vaccine is available at most doctor’s offices, clinics, and pharmacies. You can also get the vaccine at some travel clinics.
What are the laws and regulations about the meningitis vaccine for college students?
The laws and regulations about the meningitis vaccine for college students vary from state to state. Some states require all college students to get the vaccine, while others only require students who live in certain types of housing, such as dormitories.
What are the resources available to help college students get the meningitis vaccine?
There are a number of resources available to help college students get the meningitis vaccine. Many colleges and universities offer free or low-cost vaccination programs for students. There are also a number of private organizations that offer vaccination assistance.
What are the myths and misconceptions about the meningitis vaccine?
There are a number of myths and misconceptions about the meningitis vaccine. Some people believe that the vaccine is not safe or effective. Others believe that the vaccine is only necessary for children. These myths are not true. The meningitis vaccine is safe and effective, and it is recommended for all college students.
How can I learn more about the meningitis vaccine?
There are a number of ways to learn more about the meningitis vaccine. You can talk to your doctor, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, or read the vaccine information statement (VIS) for the meningitis vaccine.
