Meningitis
Meningitis is the common term for an infection of the meninges, or membranes, which protect the brain and spinal cord. The infection causes the meninges to be inflamed, creating a range of reactions – severe headaches, fever, brain damage, and even death.2,4
Meningitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or even a fungus.2,17 Viral meningitis is the most common. It is serious but generally not life threatening, and it usually goes away in 7 to 10 days.18 Bacterial meningitis, such as meningococcal meningitis, is very serious and potentially fatal.2
If you or someone you know thinks they have meningitis no matter what the cause, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Meningococcal disease includes both meningitis and septicemia.1-3 Both conditions can be very serious, and meningococcal disease can kill a child in just 24 hours.6,7 You can help protect your children from this deadly disease. Talk with your doctor about Menactra vaccine today.
Learn more about meningococcal disease NEXT: How do I get the vaccine?Indication
Menactra vaccine is given to people 9 months through 55 years of age to help prevent meningococcal disease (including meningitis) caused by certain strains of meningococcal bacteria. Menactra vaccine is not indicated for the prevention of meningitis caused by meningococcal strains not contained in the vaccine.
Safety Information
Side effects to Menactra vaccine include injection site pain, redness, swelling, headache and tiredness. In infants, irritability, crying, drowsiness, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. Other side effects may occur. Vaccination should be avoided by persons with known hypersensitivity (severe allergic reaction) to any ingredient of the vaccine or by any persons previously diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (severe muscle weakness). There is a potential for an increased chance of getting Guillain-Barré syndrome following vaccination. Vaccination with Menactra vaccine may not protect all individuals.
For more information about Menactra vaccine, talk to your health-care professional.
Ask for Menactra vaccine today?
Vaccinating your children against meningococcal disease (which includes meningococcal meningitis) is the best way to help protect them.
Help for the underinsured and uninsured
If you’re underinsured or uninsured, your child can still get Menactra vaccine – for little or no fee.19