Meningococcal diseases is a contagious illness caused by meningococcal bacteria. The disease develops quickly and can cause serious illness or death if left untreated.
It is transmitted by coughing or coming into close contact with an infected person.
Symptoms may include:
difficulty walking or talking
Meningococcal disease is treated with IV antibiotics in hospital.
The best protection against Meningococcal Disease is vaccination.
There are two different vaccines in Australia to protect against meningococcal bacteria.
The first vaccine is for Meningococcal B strain. This is only available through your GP.
The second vaccine is for Meningococcal A, C, W and Y strains, called Meningococcal ACWY (MenACWY) vaccine. This is available through your local pharmacy.
The MenACWY vaccine is a single injection that protects against 4 strains of meningococcal bacteria.
It is not a live vaccine, and it is not 100% effective. Even if you are vaccinated, go to your doctor or the hospital if you have symptoms.
Can I get the vaccination if I'm pregnant? Meningococcal vaccines are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, except in special rare circumstances.
MenACWY vaccines have been shown to be safe in multiple clinical trials and large population studies in people of different ages, from infants to adults.
Some may expereince mild reactions that resolve on their own, including:
https://immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au/contents/vaccine-preventable-diseases/meningococcal-disease
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/meningococcal-disease
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