Meningitis, an infection of the membranes (called meninges) and fluid that surround the brain and spinal cord, may be caused by either a bacterial or viral infection. Viral meningitis is usually not severe and resolves on its own. Bacterial meningitis, however, can be fatal, with up to 10 to 12 percent of all meningococcal meningitis (caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis) cases resulting in death, according to the National Meningitis Association in 2008. Bacterial meningitis is also contagious and can lead to epidemics, especially on military bases, college campuses and boarding schools. Two types of meningitis vaccines are available to help prevent outbreaks. As with most vaccines, these do pose some risks.
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
The meningococcal conjugate vaccine, also known as MCV4, is recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention for children ages 11 to 12 and again for adolescents just entering high school, around age 15. This vaccine may also be administered to children between the ages of 2 and 10 who are at an increased risk for meningitis.
The MCV4 vaccine has been linked to the onset of GBS, a disorder that occurs when the body's immune system attacks the nerves. The first symptom to appear is tingling in the hands and feet that can then travel up the arms and legs and lead to partial or total paralysis. There is no cure for this disorder, but treatments are available to help reduce the severity until an episode subsides. This is usually within a few weeks, although up to 30 percent of patients experience weakness for at least three years, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
The occurrence of GBS following vaccination with MCV4 is rare, with only 26 confirmed cases as of February 2008 according to the Centers for Disease Control. The investigation is continuing to determine how this vaccine is a factor in this disorder.
Redness and Pain
The meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine, known as MPSV4, is used to vaccinate adults. Both it and MCV4 can cause a mild reaction, including pain or redness at the injection site that can last for one to two days. The MCV4 vaccine is more likely to cause this reaction and may occur in up to 60 percent of patients, according to the University of Michigan Health System's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.
Allergic Reactions
Serious allergic reactions can occur following any type of vaccination, including both MCV4 and MPSV4. A severe allergic reaction usually occurs within minutes of the vaccination and results in difficulty breathing, wheezing, weakness, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, hives and swelling of the throat.
Fever
The risk of developing a fever following vaccination is low, occurring in only 4 percent of patients, according to the University of Michigan's C.S. Mott Children's Hospital.
