IMMUNIZATION – YOUR BEST PROTECTION

Vaccines are the best way to protect against some very serious infections. Meningococcal vaccine protects adults and children two years of age and older against the most common types of meningococcal disease. For these types, the vaccine is 85% - 100% effective in preventing infection within 7 to 14 days after administration. This vaccine is not long lasting, so revaccination may be necessary in the future.  

What is Meningococcal Disease and how is it spread?

Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria meningitidis. Symptoms include the sudden onset of fever, intense headache, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck and a rash. This bacteria is carried in the nose and throat and can be spread when the nose or throat secretions of an infected person come into contact with the nose or mouth of another person.

Who should not have the vaccine?

Anyone who:

• has an allergy to thimerosal (mercury) which is found in contact lens solution and other vaccines or an allergy to any other component of the vaccine.

• has a fever or a serious infection on the day of injection.

• has had a serious reaction to a previous meningococcal vaccine.

• is less than 2 years of age.

NOTE: Pregnancy is not a contraindication to vaccination.

What to look for after the vaccination:

• Redness, soreness, swelling or pain may occur where the needle was given and usually disappears within 1 to 2 days.

• Rarely headache, malaise, or mild fever may occur after the needle is given.

• Rarely allergic reactions like hives, wheezing, or swelling of the face or mouth may occur.

If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Call your doctor if you develop any symptoms that are severe or last more than a few days. Please note that serious side effects are very unlikely to occur and the benefits of the vaccine are much greater than the risks.

For more information on this vaccine, contact one of the numbers below and ask to speak to a Public Health Nurse in the Vaccine Preventable Diseases Program.

    www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca