The Meningitis vaccination, or Menactra is a vaccine given for the prevention of Meningococcal disease. The Meningococcal bacteria can infect the spinal cord, spinal fluid, and brain and may be fatal. According to Drugs.com, Meningococcal disease can spread from one person to another through small droplets of saliva that become expelled into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, through contact with objects the infected person has touched, such as a door handle, or through kissing or sharing a drinking glass or eating utensil with an infected person. There are some side effects of the Meningitis vaccine that patients should become aware of.
Injection Site Reaction
Patients may experience an injection site reaction following vaccination with the Meningitis vaccine. Symptoms can include redness, pain, swelling or a lump where the vaccine was injected, reports Drugs.com. These side effects should be temporary and may only last for a few days following vaccination. The use of a cold compress to the affected area may prove helpful at relieving swelling and discomfort. Patients may ask their physician if the use of an over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen may help relieve swelling and pain at the injection site. Following the vaccination of a baby or young child, parents and caregivers should use extra caution while changing or lifting the baby to not place additional pressure on the affected area.
Headache and Fever
According to the manufacturer, headache and fever may occur following vaccination and go away within 1 to 2 days. Patients may also experience fatigue and weakness while they have fever. Some physicians may recommend the use of an over-the-counter pain and fever reducer such as acetaminophen to take prior to, or immediately following their vaccination. If headache and fever become severe and accompany seizure, fainting, or numbness or tingling in the arms or legs it may indicate a sign of a serious vaccine reaction, which requires emergency medical attention.
Vomiting and Diarrhea
Vomiting and diarrhea are possible side effects of the Menactra vaccination, states Drugs.com. These side effects should diminish within a couple of days following vaccination. Eating a bland diet and avoiding spicy or fatty foods may help to lessen stomach discomfort. Patients should consume additional fluids during this time to avoid becoming dehydrated. The use of a liquid nutritional supplement such as Boost or Ensure may prove helpful to provide the required essential nutrients while experiencing stomach discomfort. If nausea and vomiting become severe, patients should contact a physician for further instruction.
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