Purpose of the Meningitis/ Meningococcal Vaccine
Meningococcal or Meningitis vaccines protect against meningococcal disease caused by four Neisseria meningitidis strains (A, C, Y, and W-135) Meningococcal disease can manifest as an infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis), infection of the blood (septicaemia), or infection of the lungs (pneumonia) (pneumonia).
Meningococcal disease may manifest with a sudden onset of headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, neck stiffness, a rash of reddish-purple spots, or bruises. Young children may exhibit less specific symptoms, such as irritability, crying, difficulty waking up, and food refusal.
Meningococcal disease is transmitted through direct person-to-person contact (e.g., through saliva during kissing) or through close, prolonged air contact with an infected person (e.g. coughing or sneezing). A healthy person who carries the bacteria in their body can also spread the disease.
Although the risk of meningococcal disease is uncommon in most countries, it is a severe disease that carries a high risk of death or permanent disability.
Why is it critical to get Meningitis/ Meningococcal Vaccine?
Meningococcal or Meningitis vaccine is recommended for high-risk groups including:
- Persons traveling to Mecca for the Hajj or Umrah (as required by the government of Saudi Arabia) are required to obtain a visa.
- Individuals traveling to sub-Saharan Africa
- Individuals with lower body resistance to infections as a result of
- Conditions such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, splenectomy or abnormal spleen function, and sickle cell disease are associated with an increased risk.
- Regarding treatment with drugs.
- People in close contact with meningococcal disease patients
- Persons at risk due to an outbreak of meningococcal disease in the community
If you believe you belong to one of the high-risk groups, please book appointment at Healthcare United Toa Payoh Clinic for an injection today. Our Meningitis vaccine stock had just arrived today.
Which Precautions Must I Take Prior To Receiving The Meningococcal / Meningitis Vaccine?
Notify your healthcare provider if:
- You are allergic to this vaccine or any of its additional ingredients.
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
- You are taking any additional drugs
- You currently have a fever and are feeling ill.
- Because of an illness such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, your immune system is compromised.
- You are currently taking medications that suppress the immune system (e.g. high dose steroids)
- You have recently received other immunizations
- You previously suffered from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (a rare nerve condition)
- You have a past medical history of bleeding disorders.
some of the side effect after taking Meningitis Vaccine
- Some people may feel dizzy after receiving the vaccination.
- To avoid fainting, sit for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine.
- Injection site pain, redness, and swelling
- For temporary relief, apply a cold compress to the affected area.
- You can take paracetamol to relieve pain.
- Headache
- You can take paracetamol to relieve pain.
- Children’s crying, irritability, and sleepiness
- These side effects usually subside on their own.
Please consult a doctor if these side effects do not improve or worsen.
some of the Serious side effect after taking Meningitis Vaccine and need to seek immediate attention.
What Are Some Rare But Serious Side Effects That Require Immediate Medical Attention?
- A drug allergy can cause one or more of the following symptoms:
- Face, eyes, lips, and tongue swelling
- Difficulties breathing
- Itchy skin rashes all over your body
If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, you or your child should seek immediate medical attention.