Meningococcal disease occurs when the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria infect the bloodstream or the brain. There are several strains (or serogroups) of the bacteria, with A, B, C, W, and Y being the most common ones that cause disease worldwide. Symptoms of meningococcal disease include:

• Severe headache
• Fever
• Stiff neck
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion or drowsiness

In the case of septicemia, symptoms include cold hands and feet, rapid breathing, and a dark purple rash. Meningococcal disease can progress quickly and requires urgent medical attention. Even with treatment, it can cause long-term disabilities such as hearing loss, brain damage, or loss of limbs.

Meningococcal disease is spread through close contact with an infected person, typically through saliva or respiratory droplets. This means it can spread through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing items like utensils or drinks. People who live in close quarters, such as university students in dormitories, military recruits, or those in crowded conditions, are at a higher risk of infection. The disease can affect people of all ages but is more common in infants, adolescents, and young adults.

The meningococcal vaccine provides effective protection against the most common strains of Neisseria meningitidis. Vaccination is especially important because meningococcal disease can develop rapidly, sometimes within hours, and can be fatal in up to 10% of cases even with treatment. In South Africa, the vaccine is recommended for:

• Children under 2 years old
• Adolescents and young adults, especially those living in group settings like boarding schools or universities.
• Travellers to countries where meningococcal disease is more common, such as those in the African meningitis belt (from Senegal to Ethiopia).
• People with weakened immune systems or certain medical conditions that put them at higher risk of infection.

There are different types of meningococcal vaccines available to protect against various strains of the bacteria:

1. Meningococcal conjugate vaccines (MCV4): These protect against four major serogroups: A, C, W, and Y. It is commonly recommended for adolescents and young adults.
2. Meningococcal B vaccine (MenB): This vaccine protects against serogroup B, which is responsible for many cases of meningococcal disease, especially in young children and adolescents.

Vaccination schedules can vary depending on age and risk factors. In South Africa, the Department of Health recommends that individuals in high-risk groups, such as young children, adolescents, and people traveling to high-risk areas, consider getting vaccinated.

The meningococcal vaccine is safe and effective. Millions of people around the world have been vaccinated, and serious side effects are very rare. The most common side effects are mild and include:

• Soreness at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Fatigue

These side effects usually go away within a day or two. The risk of serious side effects is much lower than the risk of complications from meningococcal disease itself.