September 2025
Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can lead to death in as little as a few hours. It is caused by infection with the meningococcal bacteria. The most common types of meningococcal disease are bloodstream infections and meningitis, which is a swelling of the brain and spinal cord.
Sometimes people use the term meningitis interchangeably with meningococcal disease. But this is not accurate. There are many causes of meningitis, including viral or fungal infections, injuries, and cancer; however, meningococcal disease doesn’t always result in meningitis.
Meningococcal disease isn’t widespread. Between 600 and 1,000 people in the U.S. contract the disease each year. But roughly 10% to 15% of those who do get it die from it. Of those who survive, roughly 20% end up with significant disabilities, such as hearing loss, impaired kidney function, brain damage, or amputations.
Fortunately, there are vaccines to help prevent the most common types of meningococcal disease. This is a severe illness, so parents need to talk with their child’s doctor about vaccination.
Who is most at risk of meningitis complications?
Anyone can suffer serious complications and death, but some children are more at risk.
What vaccines are recommended to protect against meningococcal disease?
There are currently three types of meningococcal vaccines available in the U.S.
- MenACWY is a vaccine that offers protection against four types of meningococcal bacteria (types A, C, W, and Y).
- MenB is a newer meningococcal vaccine that offers protection against a fifth type of meningococcal bacteria (type B).
- MenABCWY is a newer meningococcal vaccine that offers protection against all five types of meningococcal bacteria (types A, B, C, W, and Y) in one shot. (Note: This combination vaccine can only be used when both of the above vaccines are needed at the same time. And if you’re getting a booster shot, you need to get the same shot you received the first time.)
When should children receive the meningitis vaccine?
The CDC recommends that children ages 11 to 12 receive one dose of the MenACWY vaccine, followed by a second (booster) dose at age 16. The booster can be given between the ages of 16 and 18 if the initial shot wasn’t given until the child was 13 to 15. If the first shot is given at age 16 or later, no booster is needed.
The CDC recommends the MenB vaccine for individuals aged 16 to 23. To offer the most protection during the highest risk years, the series should be started when teens are between the ages of 16 and 18. The same brand and version of the shot must be given for all vaccines against meningococcal type B.
What are the potential side effects of the meningococcal vaccines?
Meningococcal vaccines are safe, but side effects can occur. Side effects from all meningococcal vaccines include:
- Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
Side effects of meningococcal vaccines that offer protection against meningococcal type B also include:
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or diarrhea
These reactions typically improve on their own within one to three days, but serious reactions can occur. Let your child’s doctor know if they have had previous side effects from the meningococcal or other vaccines, or if your child develops side effects from the vaccine.
