The Importance of the Meningitis Vaccine in Children

Meningitis is a serious illness caused by inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain. Meningitis, which is caused by a bacterial infection, seriously threatens human health and can be fatal, spreads from person to person through contact or coughing.

Taking precautions and getting vaccinated against meningitis, a very serious disease, is critically important.

Because meningitis is more common in children aged 0–5 in particular, babies need to be given the meningitis vaccine a certain time after birth. There are currently two types of meningitis vaccine in use in Türkiye. When and in what dose the vaccine is given may vary depending on the type of vaccine and the age of the person being vaccinated.

The vaccine developed against meningitis-causing microorganisms is effective against types A, C, Y and W135.

Because it is not part of the Ministry of Health’s routine vaccination schedule, people are unsure whether the meningitis vaccine is necessary. However, since meningitis can lead to serious complications such as brain damage, hearing loss, limb loss, kidney damage or death if it is not treated or prevented with vaccination, getting the meningitis vaccine to protect against the disease is very important.

Because it is not part of the Ministry of Health’s routine vaccination schedule, people are unsure whether the meningitis vaccine is necessary.

The meningitis vaccine is generally a safe vaccine. However, side effects such as redness and pain at the injection site, fever and fatigue may be seen.

It is not possible to get the meningitis vaccine free of charge at a family health center. As one of the optional (private) vaccines, the meningitis vaccine is usually given in hospitals.

According to research, the meningitis vaccine is 95–100% protective. After vaccination, the person gains lifelong immunity against meningitis.