If your child is 16-23 of age, they may be at an increased risk for meningitis. Meningococcal disease (meningitis) is an uncommon, but serious infection. Meningitis B (MenB) is caused by a group of bacteria known as group B Neisseria meningitidis. MenB can cause an infection of the membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It can also cause septicemia, a serious infection of the bloodstream.
The meningitis bacteria can infect anyone, but reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that there are higher rates among teens/young adults 16–23 years of age. Cases of meningitis B in teens and young adults peaked around 18–20 years of age.
Early symptoms can be hard to distinguish because they can be similar to those of the flu. However, meningitis B can progress quickly and symptoms may include, among others:
SEVERE HEADACHE
SUDDEN HIGH FEVER
STIFF NECK
While practicing good hygiene can help to protect against the spread of germs, according to the CDC, vaccination is the best defense in helping prevent meningitis B disease.
Talk to your child’s doctor or the Mississippi County Health Department about meningitis B vaccination.
Original source can be found here.
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