meningococcal vaccination at home

what is meningococcal disease?

Meningococcal disease refers to any infection or illness caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, also known as meningococcus. This highly contagious and severe disease can be fatal without prompt antibiotic treatment. The Neisseria meningitidis bacteria spread through respiratory and throat secretions, such as saliva, or through coughing, sneezing, or prolonged close contact with an infected person. Despite its seriousness, meningococcal disease can be prevented with the meningococcal vaccine.

Identifying meningococcal disease can be challenging, as it presents in different forms depending on the part of the body affected by the bacteria. When it impacts the brain and spinal cord, it is referred to as meningococcal meningitis. If it affects the blood, it is called meningococcal septicaemia or meningococcemia. In rare cases, the disease can affect both the blood and the central nervous system.

Meningococcal disease primarily targets infants under one year of age, as well as teens and young adults aged 16 to 23. However, individuals with weakened immune systems or those exposed to outbreaks are also at risk of contracting the disease.

what is meningococcal meningitis?

Meningococcal meningitis is a bacterial form of meningitis, a serious infection that causes inflammation and irritation of the meninges, the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This condition occurs when the bacteria enter the cerebrospinal fluid, which circulates through the central nervous system. Survivors of this disease often suffer from lasting complications, such as deafness, brain damage, and other neurological issues.

Common symptoms of meningococcal meningitis include:

• Severe, persistent headache
• Sudden high fever
• A general feeling of illness
• Stiff neck
• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion and mental changes

Meningococcal meningitis is a particularly severe disease, as many survivors face permanent disabilities. Therefore, the best preventive measure is the meningococcal vaccination, which can protect against this life-threatening condition.

meningococcal vaccination

The meningococcal vaccine is a highly effective tool in preventing meningococcal diseases, offering 85% to 100% protection for up to two years. The Neisseria meningitidis bacteria are divided into 13 serogroups, with six main strains—A, B, C, W, Y, and X—responsible for most human cases. Currently, vaccines protect against five of these strains (A, B, C, W, and Y), with no vaccine available for serogroup X yet.

The vaccine is administered via injection, either under the skin or into a muscle. There are three types of meningococcal vaccines:

1. Two meningococcal conjugate vaccines (MCV-4)
2. One polysaccharide vaccine (MPSV-4)
3. One serogroup B meningococcal vaccine

These vaccines provide protection against four major types of meningococcal disease, making them crucial in reducing the risk of this severe infection.

meningococcal conjugate vaccine 

The meningococcal conjugate vaccine is a combination vaccine that provides protection against the A, C, W, and Y serogroups of Neisseria meningitidis, the bacteria responsible for meningococcal infections. It offers long-lasting protection by exposing the individual to a small, harmless dose of the bacterial protein, prompting the immune system to develop defenses against the bacteria and the associated diseases.

This vaccine is preventive and does not treat individuals with an active meningococcal infection. It is safe for both children and adults aged 9 months to 55 years, making it an effective tool in controlling the spread of meningococcal disease in these age groups.

meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine

This type of vaccine also provides the same protection as the other meningococcal meningitis vaccine, except the fact that it is the only known vaccine that can be given to people above 55 years of age.

serogroup b meningococcal b vaccine

This vaccine can be used among people in the age group 10 to 24 years or age and also to older people

meningococcal vaccine schedule

The standard meningococcal vaccine schedule defines the meningococcal vaccine age for all children to be age 11 – 12 years for the first dose of the meningococcal meningitis vaccine – MCV4 and a booster shot to be given at the age of 16 -18 years of age.

meningococcal vaccine side effects 

As with any vaccination the risk of meningococcal vaccine side effects are also always there, but the side effects are milder. Some of the common side effects of meningococcal meningitis vaccination are as follows;

• Soreness at the site of the meningococcal meningitis vaccination injection
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Fever
• Nausea
• Diarrhoea

meningococcal vaccine price 

The meningococcal vaccine price in India varies with the type of vaccine being used, the brand and the dosage of the vaccine. Usually the mcv vaccine cost in India is found to average between 500 to 5000 INR. Although the meningococcal vaccine cost can be little on the higher side, the benefit it provides far outweighs its cost.

how to book vaccination at home

At home vaccination offers a convenient and straightforward way to stay up-to-date on your immunizations. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Schedule: Simply contact a reputable home vaccination service. They will guide you through the available vaccines and answer any questions you may have. Once you’ve chosen the right vaccination, you can schedule a convenient appointment time for the home visit.
2. Nurse Visit: On the scheduled day of home visit vaccination, a qualified healthcare professional will visit your home. They will review your medical history and ensure you’re eligible for the chosen vaccine. After administering the vaccination, they will monitor you for any immediate reactions.
3. Post-vaccination Guidance: The healthcare professional will provide you with detailed instructions on post-vaccination care, including any potential side effects to watch for. They will also answer any questions you may have about the vaccination or your overall health.
4. Next-dose Reminders: The home vaccination service will keep track of your vaccination schedule and may send you reminders for any upcoming booster doses you might need to ensure long-term immunity.

As part of our at home healthcare services, we also offer meningococcal vaccination near you, at home, so you don’t have to take the trouble to travel to a doctor. Just give us a call to book a meningococcal vaccine appointment and our representative doctor will visit at a date and time of your choosing and administer you the required meningococcal vaccination at your comfort. We also offer economical and attractive meningococcal vaccine prices in India, so it doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket. So safeguard yourself and your loved ones from this deadly disease and allow us to help you get this vaccination as smoothly as possible.

portea’s other services

Portea’s comprehensive services, from doctor consultations, physiotherapy, nursing home care, nursing care, trained attendants.diagnostics, medical equipment, caretakers and vaccination service ensure that all your healthcare needs are met with professionalism and care. Whether you need to buy or seek assistance,rely on us for top-tier healthcare solutions tailored to your requirements. Portea is your trusted partner in health.

faq’s 

1. What are the possible side effects of the meningococcal vaccine? 

 Common side effects include redness or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, or fatigue. Severe allergic reactions are rare.

2. Can I get the meningococcal vaccine if I’m already sick?

If you have an active infection or fever, it’s best to wait until you are well before getting vaccinated.

3. Can the meningococcal vaccine prevent all types of meningitis?

No, the vaccine protects against specific strains of Neisseria meningitidis, but not all forms of meningitis, such as those caused by other bacteria or viruses.

4. Can pregnant women receive the meningococcal vaccine at home?

It is important for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider to determine if vaccination is safe and necessary during pregnancy.

5. How often should I get a meningococcal booster?

Booster doses are typically recommended for teens and adults who remain at high risk of exposure, generally every 5 years.