5 Things You Need to Know About Meningitis Vaccinations

1. Protect Babies From Meningitis

The type of meningitis babies develop differs from meningococcal meningitis. The Hib vaccine keeps infants from developing meningitis, protecting more than 95 percent of infants successfully after the recommended doses. A pediatrician gives the vaccination at 2, 4, 6 and 12 months, depending on the type of vaccination used. Some formulas for the Hib vaccine mix it with other vaccinations like DTaP or hepatitis B.

2. Prevent a Deadly Disease

For every 100,000 people, meningococcal meningitis infects one to two people in the United States. It attacks both children and adults, causing a serious infection in the lining of the brain. Even with antibiotics, the infection kills 13 percent of infected people and leaves others permanently disabled. The Centers for Disease Control approves the use of Menomune and Menactra as meningitis vaccinations. Protection lasts 4 to 5 years, so you need to update the vaccination even if you got one in high school.

3. Vaccinate College Students

Studies show that meningitis spreads among people in close proximity. Kissing or coughing passes meningitis from person to person. Statistically, for every 100,000 first-year college students, meningitis infects five people. This makes first-year college students more susceptible, so many colleges now require incoming first-year students to get the meningitis vaccination. Some colleges require the vaccine for transfer students as well. Other ways to prevent the spread of meningitis include using your own eating utensils, not sharing drinks, washing hands often, not smoking and avoiding droplets from sneezing and coughing.

4. Vaccination Isn't a Catchall

Menomune and Menactra protect against four of five subtypes of meningitis. Currently, there's no vaccination for type B bacteria, which causes one-third of meningitis cases. The vaccinations have an 85 percent success rate for halting the spread of meningitis in vaccinated individuals. This means even with the vaccination, you still may become infected. Viral meningitis, which is rarely fatal, also occurs in people who've had the vaccination.

5. Roll the Dice

Some people, including some medical professionals, feel that vaccination isn't necessary. The chance of getting meningitis is less than other infectious diseases. Look at the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and talk with doctors about your concerns. Once you fully understand the risks involved in refusing the vaccination, you may sign a declaration indicating your refusal to get the vaccination. Some institutions may require a doctor's signature in addition to your own.