We can now immunise against two of the bacterial types of meningitis. There’s been a vaccine against the A and C strains of meningococcal meningitis (one of the bacterial forms) for some years, but there isn’t one against the B strain yet, which is unfortunate, because that’s the one that mainly does the damage.
Immunisation against meningococcal meningitis may be useful in a persistent local outbreak, and there are some countries (notably Nepal, Kenya and Norway) where meningitis is currently prevalent. Travellers to these countries may be offered meningitis vaccination before they go. Travel vaccination requirements change from month to month – check the current requirement with your doctor or practice nurse at least six weeks before you are due to travel.
Secondly, immunisation against Haemophilus Influenzae is now available, called the Hib vaccine. It’s presently being offered to children under age of four in the UK. Haemophilus Influenzae more commonly produces severe respiratory infections, especially in children. Despite its name, it doesn’t cause influenza.
A full course of immunisation consists of three injections at intervals of about six weeks. Older children will require fewer injections, and adults don’t need it because they will have developed a natural immunity.
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