Travel Vaccines
Meningitis vaccine
Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, leading to inflammation of the brain lining (meninges). There are 6 disease-causing strains (A, B, C, W, Y, X). Transmission occurs through prolonged or frequent contact with respiratory secretions, such as via aerosol or droplets.
Epidemics are common in sub-Saharan Africa and during religious pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia, where a vaccination certificate may be required. Note that only the Meningitis C vaccine is given in schools, and it typically provides protection for 3-5 years, depending on visa requirements.
Signs & Symptoms
Invasive meningococcal disease typically manifests as meningitis or septicaemia.
Symptoms of meningitis include:
• Neck stiffness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sudden high fever
• Intense headache
Symptoms of septicaemia include:
• Fever
• Chills
• Confusion
• Rash
Both conditions can progress quickly and pose a high risk of complications and death.
How do you catch Meningiti
Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) around the brain and spinal cord, caused by various infectious agents like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The transmission methods depend on the cause of meningitis:
Bacterial Meningitis:
– Spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with respiratory secretions (e.g., sharing utensils or being in the same household) can lead to transmission.
Viral Meningitis:
– Primarily transmitted through respiratory secretions, similar to the common cold or flu, mainly through exposure to droplets.
Fungal Meningitis:
– Caused by inhaling fungal spores or direct contact with contaminated materials, like soil or bird droppings.
Not everyone exposed to these agents will develop meningitis, as some people can carry the bacteria or viruses without symptoms. Risk factors include living in close quarters, having a weakened immune system, attending crowded events, or recent contact with an infected person.
Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, can reduce transmission. Vaccination for specific strains of bacterial meningitis, like meningococcal and pneumococcal, is also available.
How is at risk from it
Meningitis can affect people of all ages, but some groups are at higher risk of developing the disease or facing severe complications. These include:
• Infants and young children: Infants under 1 year old are at the highest risk for bacterial meningitis, especially from group B Streptococcus, E. coli, and Listeria. The risk decreases as children age.
Adolescents and young adults: Those living in close quarters, such as in college dorms or military barracks, are more susceptible to meningococcal meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis.
Older adults: Individuals over 60 are more prone to pneumococcal meningitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, with a higher risk of severe complications and mortality.
Immunocompromised individuals: People with weakened immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, or chemotherapy are more vulnerable to meningitis from various pathogens.
Close contacts of infected individuals: People who have had close contact with someone diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, particularly in households, may be at a higher risk.
While anyone can contract meningitis, these groups are at increased risk. Vaccination for meningococcal and pneumococcal meningitis is recommended for high-risk individuals. Prompt medical attention is crucial for improving outcomes if meningitis symptoms appear.
Symptoms
Meningitis symptoms can vary based on the cause (bacterial, viral, fungal, etc.) and the age of the individual. It is a serious condition that requires urgent medical attention. Common symptoms include:
• Sudden high fever
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck (difficulty touching the chin to the chest)
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Sleepiness or trouble waking up
• Seizures
• Irritability (especially in infants and children)
• Skin rash (e.g., in meningococcal meningitis)
• Muscle aches or joint pain
• Loss of appetite
In infants, symptoms can be more subtle, such as:
• High-pitched cry
• Excessive sleepiness or irritability
• Poor feeding
• Bulging fontanelles (soft spots on the skull)
Not everyone will experience all these symptoms, and some may overlap with other illnesses. If symptoms suggestive of meningitis develop, especially with a sudden onset or rapid worsening, seek immediate medical attention. Prompt treatment is crucial for the best outcome.
