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June 2011
Immunization Information about Type C Meningitis
(also known as invasive meningococcal disease)
What is Type C meningitis or invasive meningococcal disease (IMD)?
Type C meningitis is an infection of the lining of the brain and/or spinal cord caused by a bacteria (Neisseria meningitidis) carried in the throat and nose of up to 30% of healthy people. In rare instances, the bacteria can overcome the body's natural defences and cause serious disease. Every year, 2 to 10 people get Type C meningitis in Toronto. While Type C meningitis is rare, most cases occur in children less than two years of age and adolescents between 15 and 19 years of age.
Are there vaccines against Type C meningitis?
Yes. MenjugateTM, NeisVac-CTM and MeningitecTM are vaccines that protect against Type C meningitis (all three provide the same protection). These are newer vaccines and they provide greater and longer lasting protection to young children than previous vaccines against Type C meningitis.
Who can get these vaccines?
People over two months of age can get MenjugateTM, NeisVac-CTM or MeningitecTM. The vaccine is free for the following groups:
- People in close or direct contact with a person who has Type C meningitis
- One-year old children born on or after September 1st, 2004
- Youth between 15 and 25 years of age
- Individuals at increased risk of serious illness from IMD due to certain chronic conditions
A person who is not eligible for the free vaccine can purchase it through a pharmacy or their doctor.
Who should not get these vaccines?
People who have had a side effect to vaccines in the past should see their doctor. These types of vaccines are generally safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but a detailed discussion of risks and benefits should occur with a woman's health care provider before getting the vaccine.
Who should these vaccines be given to?
A national expert panel of doctors recommends that infants, children, adolescents and young adults receive this type of vaccine as part of their routine vaccinations. The vaccine should also be given to all people with a weakened immune system or without a spleen and those who are in close contact with saliva, share utensils or live with a person who has Type C meningitis.
Can these vaccines be given with other vaccines?
Yes. Studies have shown that it is safe to give these vaccines with other childhood vaccines. Giving different vaccines at the same time does not weaken the body's response to them.
What are the possible side effects of these vaccines?
Fewer than half of the people who get these vaccines may experience redness, tenderness and swelling where the needle was given. Many infants are cranky after receiving one of these vaccines and a few people get a fever. Some older children and adults may get headaches and feel unwell. More serious side effects like throat swelling and breathing problems are rarely seen. You should report any side effects or severe vaccine reactions to your health care provider.
Information about meningitis:
How can this type of meningitis be spread?
Neisseria meningitidis, the bacteria causing meningitis, can be spread by kissing, coughing, sharing common items such as eating utensils, cups, cigarettes, music instruments and other contact where saliva is passed from one person to another.
What are the symptoms of this type of meningitis?
Early signs can be similar to those of flu and other viral infections, making it difficult to diagnose. Symptoms in infants and children include fever, irritability, sleepiness, difficulty feeding, vomiting, stiff neck and bulging of the soft spot on top of the skull. Symptoms in youth and older individuals include vomiting, drowsiness, high fever, stiff neck, headache, seizures, joint aches and pain and dislike of light.
Can this type of meningitis be treated?
Yes, it can be treated with antibiotics, but even with the right treatment, this illness can lead to long lasting injury or death in 10% of infected people.
Can this vaccine be given to someone with an egg allergy?
Yes. The MMR vaccine can be given to people who are allergic to eggs, even if they have a severe egg allergy, as long as they are observed after the vaccine is given.
Where can I get this vaccine against Type C meningitis?
Those eligible to receive the free vaccine (see above) can see their doctor. School-aged children can come to a Toronto Public Health clinic. See our website for dates/times and locations for a clinic near you.
Remember to tell the doctor or the nurse at the clinic about any side effects you or your child has had to vaccines and be sure to update the yellow immunization card every time a vaccine is given. Parents should provide information on vaccines given to school-aged children in Toronto to Toronto Public Health by calling 416-392-1250.
Last updated June 2011
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