Invasive meningococcal infections

Meningococcal diseases are caused by different serogroups of the bacterium known as Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus). There are five main serotypes: A, B, C, W and Y. Meningococci are bacteria that can cause very serious infections such as meningitis or septicaemia. Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Septicemia is a generalised blood infection which, like meningitis, can be fatal or leave serious sequelae.

They are normally present in the throat and nose of many people. They can be transmitted through the air or through saliva.

As with other bacterial infectious diseases, vaccination can protect susceptible individuals. There are various vaccines that protect against certain serogroups of the bacterium.

• Against meningococcus B, infants from the age of 3 months to protect them individually against the risk of disease, as well as certain population groups (people who are immunocompromised or at risk of invasive infection).
• Against meningococci ACWY, children from the age of 1 year with a booster in adolescence (15 years).

Vaccination provides complete protection against invasive infections caused by meningococci A, B, C, W and Y.

Vaccination schedule

Against meningococcus B

• Vaccination: 3 months, 5 months
  
• Booster: 12 months

The vaccine is administered in 3 injections. The vaccination schedule recommends that children begin vaccination at 3 months of age, with a second dose at 5 months. A booster is recommended at 12 months of age.

Against meningococcus ACWY

• Vaccination: 13 months
• Booster: 15-16 years