Get a Meningitis Shot
If you or someone you know is at risk of contracting meningitis, getting a meningitis shot as soon as possible is a good idea. You can find free and inexpensive meningitis shots at some public clinics and health departments. Check your local health department's website to find a location near you. There are two different types of meningitis vaccines: Menomune and Menactra. The CDC recommends Menomune.
Meningitis vaccines
Meningitis vaccines are used to prevent infection by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis. Different versions are effective against different strains of this bacteria. The vaccine can be effective for at least two years. The vaccine is effective against up to 85 percent of the bacteria.
This vaccine is essential for children and teens because they are at an increased risk of meningococcal disease. It is also recommended for college students and people working with large groups of people in public places. In addition, people who have weakened immune systems are also at risk for meningitis.
Cost of meningitis vaccine
There are two main reasons why the cost of a meningitis vaccine may be too high. One is the lack of scientific evidence supporting the vaccine. The other is because the vaccine is not widely available in the United States. The good news is that the risk of contracting meningitis is lower than the risk of getting into a car accident.
The cost of a meningitis vaccine depends on the type of vaccine and the dosage. Typically, a single shot costs $100 to $150. Many health insurance plans cover the vaccine, but not all do. Aetna, for example, considers the vaccine medically necessary for patients through age 18, those with HIV, and those traveling to certain areas.
Side effects of meningitis vaccine
The meningitis vaccine is a shot that prevents the spread of meningococcal disease. It consists of a polysaccharide and conjugate vaccine that prevents infection. Vaccines can cause side effects, but these are generally mild and usually last no longer than one or two days. Some people may experience soreness, flushing, or swelling around the injection site.
Even though some side effects are associated with meningitis vaccines, they are very rare. Usually, people at high risk of developing meningitis will not receive this vaccine. However, if your child is at high risk for the condition, you should seek medical advice before getting the vaccine.
When to take the meningitis vaccine
The best time to get vaccinated against meningitis is during early childhood. A healthy child should be immunized with the Men-C-C vaccine at around 12 months. However, some children may be recommended to be vaccinated earlier. Healthy children between two and 11 years of age can also receive the Serogroup B meningococcal vaccine. Teenagers and adults should consult their healthcare provider to determine their vaccination schedule.
Meningitis is a serious disease that affects 2.5 million people globally each year. It is often difficult to diagnose and can cause severe damage to the central nervous system. However, vaccination is an effective way to develop protection against the most common causes of meningitis. It also helps prevent the spread of the disease within communities, which ultimately benefits the population. Vaccination has saved millions of lives worldwide and has made significant strides in the battle against this terrible disease.
