Meningitis is a serious bacterial infection causing inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes, which can lead to long-term disabilities like hearing loss, brain damage, or even be fatal. Vaccination is the most effective method to prevent this disease. This guide outlines how to obtain a meningitis vaccine and what to expect.
Understanding Meningitis Vaccines and Recommendations
Meningococcal disease, causing meningitis, is caused by specific bacteria. Vaccines protect against bacterial strains, known as serogroups. Primary meningitis vaccines include MenACWY, MenB, and the newer MenABCWY option. MenACWY vaccines (e.g., Menveo, MenQuadfi) protect against serogroups A, C, W, and Y; MenB vaccines (e.g., Bexsero, Trumenba) target serogroup B. A pentavalent MenABCWY vaccine (e.g., Penbraya, Penmenvy) offers protection against all five serogroups: A, B, C, W, and Y.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends MenACWY vaccination for all adolescents, typically with a first dose at 11 or 12 years and a booster at age 16. A booster is important because protection can wane, especially during late adolescence when risk is higher. For MenB vaccines, the CDC recommends shared clinical decision-making for adolescents and young adults aged 16-23, with a preferred age of 16-18 years. This vaccine is given in two or three doses, depending on the specific product. The MenABCWY vaccine is an option when both MenACWY and MenB vaccines are indicated at the same visit.
Certain populations have increased risk and may require meningococcal vaccination outside the routine adolescent schedule. This includes infants and children as young as 2 months old with certain medical conditions (e.g., complement deficiencies, asplenia including sickle cell disease), or those traveling to high-risk areas. Individuals taking complement inhibitor medications (e.g., eculizumab, ravulizumab) also fall into this high-risk category.
Other high-risk groups include college students in residence halls, military personnel, and microbiologists working with Neisseria meningitidis isolates. Booster doses are recommended every 3 to 5 years for those with ongoing risk factors. Discussing individual risk factors and appropriate vaccination schedules with a healthcare provider is important.
Locating a Vaccination Provider
Meningitis vaccines are generally convenient to obtain, with several types of providers offering immunizations. Primary care physicians and pediatricians are common contacts, assessing individual health needs and providing recommended vaccines. Local health departments often offer vaccination services, sometimes at reduced costs or through programs like Vaccines for Children (VFC) for eligible individuals.
Many pharmacies (e.g., Walgreens, CVS, Kroger, Walmart) administer meningitis vaccines in most states. They often provide flexibility with walk-in appointments or extended hours. University health centers are a common resource for college students, providing easy access to immunizations, especially for those in dormitories. For international travelers, travel clinics provide specific guidance and administer recommended vaccines based on destination risks.
Before visiting a provider, call ahead to confirm vaccine availability and appointment procedures. Verify insurance coverage. Most private health insurance plans cover recommended vaccinations, and the Affordable Care Act mandates coverage for CDC-recommended immunizations.
For those without insurance, MenACWY vaccines cost $170-$230, and MenB vaccines $190-$280. Many health departments and some schools offer free or discounted vaccines for uninsured or underinsured individuals. Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans cover meningitis vaccines if doctor-recommended.
What to Expect When Getting Vaccinated
Prepare for a meningitis vaccination by bringing necessary documentation, such as insurance information and existing vaccination records. This helps the provider ensure the correct vaccine type and dosage are administered and update your immunization history. The vaccine is typically injected into a muscle, usually the upper arm. The process is quick, involving a brief pinch or sting at the injection site.
Mild side effects are common after vaccination, indicating the immune system is building protection. These include soreness, redness, or mild swelling at the injection site, usually resolving within one to two days for MenACWY and three to five days for MenB vaccines. Other side effects include low-grade fever, headache, muscle pain, tiredness, or occasionally nausea and diarrhea, particularly with MenB vaccines. These symptoms are mild and subside within a few days.
To manage common side effects, over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen) can alleviate pain and fever. Applying a cool, damp cloth to the injection site reduces discomfort and swelling. Staying hydrated and getting adequate rest can also aid recovery.
While most reactions are mild, serious allergic reactions are rare but can occur. Symptoms like hives, facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, or dizziness warrant immediate medical attention (call 911). Fainting can occur immediately after vaccination, so individuals may be observed for about 15 minutes. If a multi-dose series is required, completing all doses is important for maximum protection.