The most effective and vital way to protect your brain is to avoid dangerous diseases by taking preventive measures such as the meningitis vaccine. Meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord. This rapidly progressing disease poses a great threat, especially to children, adolescents and individuals with weakened immune systems, and should never be taken lightly. The meningitis vaccine, one of the most effective defenses against meningitis, is unfortunately not well known in society.
What is the meningitis vaccine?
Meningitis is a disease that occurs when the membranes surrounding the brain become inflamed and can cause serious health problems. Meningitis, which is caused by a bacterial infection, can be easily transmitted through coughing or contact and can be fatal if left untreated. This disease, which is especially common in children under the age of 5, can also occur in young people between the ages of 16-25 and in individuals over the age of 55.
Meningitis vaccine is an effective vaccine that provides protection against types A, C, Y and W135. This vaccine, which has been administered in Turkey since 2013, is licensed in 65 countries and is administered as 1 or 2 doses starting from the 9th month within the scope of advanced vaccination programs. Types of meningitis vaccines include meningococcal, pneumococcal and Hib vaccines.
When is the meningitis vaccine given?
The timing of the meningitis vaccine may vary depending on the person’s age and the conditions that carry the risk of meningitis. Therefore, it is very important to consult a health care professional to determine the right timing. In general, the meningitis vaccine is one of the vaccines recommended for children at an early age. According to the vaccination schedule, meningitis vaccine is given to babies at 2, 4 and 6 months. In addition, an additional dose of the meningitis B vaccine should be administered at 12-15 months.
What happens if meningitis vaccine is not administered?
Meningitis is a dangerous infection that causes inflammation in the membranes of the brain and spinal cord, and the risk of infection increases if individuals are vulnerable to this disease.
Symptoms of this infection include severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, changes in consciousness, sensitivity to light, skin rashes, and seizures. Meningitis can cause serious complications and even death if left untreated. Therefore, the most effective way to prevent meningitis is to get vaccinated.
What are the side effects of the meningitis vaccine?
The meningitis vaccine, like other vaccines, can cause some side effects. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a short time. The side effects of the vaccine can vary depending on the person’s age and general health. The side effects of the meningitis vaccine can include: