A meningitis shot is an injection used to build immunity to a type of bacteria called meningococcal. Vaccination is typically recommended for pre-teens or college students, according to Rutgers University. Individuals living in group housing arrangements are more likely to contract the disease. As with any vaccine, the meningitis shot has the potential for side effects.
Common Side Effects
Most people receiving the meningitis shot do not experience any side effects besides discomfort at the site of the injection. These symptoms may include tingling, pain, tenderness, mild bleeding and/or bruising. The area may feel stiff for one to two days after administration. The site may also appear red or inflamed for a brief period of time. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, very few patients experience a mild fever.
Less Common Side Effects
Some individuals may develop a headache, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramping, chills and/or a rash after receiving the vaccine. These side effects should resolve themselves within one to two days. The CDC indicates the likelihood of these side effects is minimal.
Severe Problems
According to the CDC, in very few cases do people experience severe reactions to the vaccine. Most occur within a few minutes or hours of the injection. Menactra.com, a manufacturer of the meningitis vaccine, points out that in rare cases individuals may develop a condition called Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS). The CDC suggests the risk for developing this condition is very small and evidence has yet to link GBS directly to the vaccine. The syndrome causes paralysis that begins in the legs and spreads throughout the body. It can lead to respiratory arrest.
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