A single vaccine against inflammation of the meninges does not exist, because there are too many pathogens for this pathology. The most dangerous bacterial meningitis, as they provoke tissue suppuration and sepsis, which can lead to death. As a rule, the disease causes 3 groups of pathogenic microorganisms - meningococcal bacteria, pneumococci and Haemophilus influenzae type B. A vaccination against meningitis can protect only one type of these microbes, but the most recommended is a vaccination against meningococcal infection.
How does the vaccine work against meningitis?
Vaccination is the introduction into the body of a small dose pathogen pathology or its individual components (particles of the cell wall). The activity and concentration of the pathogenic flora in this case is too low to provoke the development of meningitis, but sufficient for the correct response of the organism.
As a result, specific immunity is formed that can quickly resist infection, prevent the reproduction and spread of bacteria, and prevent purulent inflammatory processes. The produced antibodies are stored in the blood for up to 10 years.
Name of vaccination against meningitis
Vaccines from meningococcus type A, C, Y, W135:
- Menjugate;
- Mencewax ACWY;
- meningococcal vaccine A;
- Meningo A + C (polysaccharide meningococcal vaccine A + C).
The first indicated vaccine is conjugated - it contains proteins of pathogenic bacteria, due to which a long-term immune memory is produced.
From meningococci type B there are no registered vaccinations yet, testing of a newly developed vaccine is conducted abroad.
Vaccination from pneumococcal infection is only 2:
- polysaccharide Pneumo 23;
- conjugated 7-valent Prevenar.
- Vaccines from a hemophilic rod type B:
- Act-HIB;
- Hiberix;
- Pentaxim (complex).
For today, these are all drugs effective for the prevention of meningitis, provoked by this group of microorganisms.
It is worth noting that vaccination against meningitis is not mandatory in the medical plan. It is carried out exclusively at the request of patients.
The consequences of vaccination against meningitis
The medications examined are well tolerated, without side effects and consequences. In rare cases, reactions are possible in the form of local redness, fever and swelling at the point of injection, a little soreness.