
Meningitis can also be caused by other organisms and some medicines, but this is rare. Bacterial meningitis is caused by bacteria.
It needs to be treated right away to prevent brain damage and death.
Bacterial meningitis isn't as common, but it's very serious. In severe cases, it can cause prolonged fever and seizures. It usually doesn't cause serious illness. Also at risk are older adults and people who have long-term health problems, such as a weakened immune system. The infection occurs most often in children, teens, and young adults. Meningitis is inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. To learn more about any of these vaccines, visit ImmunizeBC. For more information, see HealthLinkBC File #23c Meningococcal B (Men-B) Vaccine. It is provided free to those 2 months of age and older who have been in close contact with a case of meningococcal B disease. The meningococcal B vaccine (Men-B) is not part of the publicly funded routine schedule of immunizations in B.C. ≤ 24 years of age and born in 2002 or later who have not received the vaccineįor more information, see HealthLinkBC File #23b Meningococcal Quadrivalent Vaccines. This vaccine is also provided free to adults who are: The meningococcal quadrivalent vaccine is offered to all students in grade 9 as part of the routine immunization program in B.C. People born before 2002 who are 24 years of age and under, who did not get a dose of vaccine on or after their 10th birthdayįor more information, see HealthLinkBC File #23a Meningococcal C Conjugate (Men-C) Vaccine and the B.C. The meningococcal C (Men-C) vaccine is provided free to infants as part of the routine infant immunization schedule. The type of vaccine recommended depends on a person's age and risk factors. In British Columbia, there are that can help protect against bacterial meningitis: the meningococcal C (Men-C) vaccine, the meningococcal quadrivalent vaccine, and the meningococcal B (Men-B) vaccine.