The Meningococcal Vaccine & Why Your Family Should Get It

The world health organization (WHO) has recently reported an increase in the prevalence of meningococcal disease in some countries. Meningococcal disease is a serious and potentially deadly illness caused by a type of bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. Find out how vaccination can help protects you and your family.

1. What is the meningococcal vaccine and what does it protect against?

The meningococcal vaccine protects against Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. This bacteria can cause meningococcal infection or is known as meningococcal disease.

What is meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to many types of infection such as bacterial meningitis, septicemia, or pneumonia. Meningitis and septicaemia or bloodstream infection are the two most common illnesses caused by this bacteria. The inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord is known as meningitis while sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when an infection spreads through the bloodstream. The bacterial transmission is usually through close contact with respiratory droplets, such as saliva or mucus which is easily spread out during coughing or sneezing either by patients or asymptomatic carriers. 

Symptoms of meningococcal meningitis (bacterial meningitis):​

• Fever
  
• Headache
  
• Stiff neck
  
• Sensitivity to light
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Confusion
  

Symptoms of meningococcal septicemia:​

• Fever
  
• Chills
  
• Rash of red or purple spots or bruises (during later stage)
  
• Severe muscle pain
  
• Feeling tired or sleepy
  
• Shortness of breath
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Diarrhoea
  

2. Who should get the meningococcal vaccine

In Malaysia, this vaccine is not routinely given and it is not included in the National Immunisation Schedule. However, it is recommended for all people who are at increased risk of infection.

This includes students living in higher education institutions such as college or university dormitories, military personnel, and travellers to certain regions of the world where the disease is more common.

For example, the Saudi Arabia government has made meningococcal vaccination compulsory for those travelling for h

Hajj and Umrah. This vaccination should be completed before their departure to the holy land along with other highly recommended vaccines such as the pneumococcal vaccines. This is important for the prevention of meningococcal disease outbreaks as well as other infectious diseases among pilgrims.

Some people may also be at increased risk due to a medical condition, such as the absence of a spleen (asplenia) or an individual with a weakened immune system.

Why is it important for children?

Children are particularly vulnerable, which is why it is recommended to vaccinate your child against it. In infants, the meningococcal disease may present with:​

• High fever
  
• Irritability
  
• Poor feeding
  
• Stiff neck
  
• Bulging fontanelles (soft spots in the head)
  

3. How the meningococcal vaccine is given?

The meningococcal vaccine is typically given as a shot into the muscle usually in the arm. The number of doses and the schedule for receiving them will vary depending on the age of the person being vaccinated.

For people who are at increased risk of infection, such as those with certain medical conditions or who are travelling to an area where meningococcal disease is common, additional doses or a different vaccination schedule may be recommended.

The meningococcal vaccine can be administered by any healthcare provider who is licensed to give vaccines. In most cases, no special preparation is needed before receiving the vaccine. However, it is always important to let your healthcare provider know if you have any allergies or medical conditions that could affect your ability to receive the vaccine.

How meningococcal vaccine works?

The meningococcal vaccine works by protecting against the most common types of meningococcal bacteria. These vaccines help your body build up immunity. 

When you come in contact with the bacteria, your immune system produces antibodies that help fight off the infection. The meningococcal vaccine helps your body build up immunity against the bacteria by injecting a small amount of the inactivated (killed) bacteria into your body. This “vaccine-induced” infection triggers an immune response and produces antibodies that provide protection against future infections.

4. What are the side effects of the meningococcal vaccine?

The most common side effect of the vaccine is soreness at the injection site. Other possible side effects include fever, headache and nausea. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days.

Serious side effects are rare. If you experience any symptoms after receiving the vaccine, please seek medical attention immediately. Overall, the meningococcal vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from this serious disease.

5. How effective is the meningococcal vaccine?

The meningococcal vaccine is a highly effective way to protect yourself from this serious disease. The vaccine is more than 80% effective at preventing meningococcal infection, and it is the best way to protect yourself and your family from this potentially deadly disease.

6. Why is it important to vaccinate against meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease can cause severe illness, including meningitis (inflammation of the brain) and septicemia (blood infection), and it can be fatal in up to 10-15% of cases. Permanent sequelae such as limb loss, hearing and neurological damage occur in 20% of the survivors.

Being vaccinated against meningococcal disease can help to prevent serious health complications from the infection, prevent the spread of the bacteria and save lives.

7. Where can I get the meningococcal vaccine in Malaysia?

The meningococcal vaccine is available at most clinics and hospitals in Malaysia. The urban area like Kuala Lumpur or the Klang Valley area usually has more accessibility for this service. For those travelling such as for umrah and hajj, you can contact your travel agency for recommended clinics to get your vaccination.

How much does the meningococcal vaccine cost in Malaysia?

The cost of the vaccine will vary depending on the brand used and the number of doses required.

The cost of vaccination can be a significant barrier to access, particularly for families with limited financial means. However, considering the potentially devastating consequences of meningococcal disease, many experts believe that the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the cost.

What are the types of meningococcal vaccines available in Malaysia?

Meningococcal vaccines available in Malaysia are quadrivalent (ACWY) conjugated vaccines which protect against 4 serogroups of meningococcal bacteria which are serogroup A, C W135 and Y.

Meningococcal disease is a serious and potentially deadly illness. The best way to protect yourself from this disease is through vaccination.

Book a meningococcal vaccination appointment with us today. It is important to protect yourself and your family. DoctorOnCall offers convenient online booking so you can get vaccinated quickly and easily.