Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes of the spinal cord and brain. The disease is very dangerous and characterized by serious consequences, both for physical and psychological development. Unfortunately, to date, the universal vaccine for meningitis has not been invented. The problem is that various pathogenic bacteria and viruses cause this serious illness . But still, prevention has been developed and is actively used among the population. Vaccination helps prevent infection with many diseases that subsequently lead to the development of meningitis. Most often, a vaccine for meningitis (that is, from a number of microorganisms - pathogens of infections) is given to children at an early age.
Of course, not one drug has been developed that prevents the occurrence of viral and
bacterial meningitis. We list only a few of them.
- A vaccine against bacteria of the species Haemophilus influenzae. These are the causative agents of fairly severe pneumonia and meningitis. Type B is especially dangerous for humans, against which, in fact, a vaccination drug was created. Children under 5 years of age, as well as children of any age suffering from certain diseases are subject to vaccination. Until recently, hemophilic bacilli were considered the most common causative agents of meningitis of a bacterial nature, but due to active prevention, cases of diseases have become rare.
- A vaccine against meningitis that protects against microbial agents belonging to the genus Neisseria. First of all, we are talking about meningococci. Usually it is administered to children under 12 years old. It is used to protect people with diseases that reduce the activity of the immune system. In some regions, this vaccine is also recommended for recruiting soldiers and students living in dormitories. Of course, do not forget about tourists, especially if you have to travel to some countries in Africa, where outbreaks of
meningococcal infections still occur
.- The next vaccine for meningitis is directed against the action of pneumococci. These microbes often cause inflammation of the meninges. Two types of pneumococcal vaccine have been developed. The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is recommended for adults over 60. The second conjugation pneumococcal vaccine is used for the prevention of children under two years of age and children aged 2 to 5 years, belonging to the risk group.
Of course, a vaccine against meningitis is being developed that could reduce the risk of this disease. But for now, it remains only to take measures to protect your body from pathogens.
So, how not to get meningitis? You need to start with the most basic things. Since some types of meningitis are transmitted exclusively by an aerogenous route, it is necessary to refrain from close contact with sick people. Also use individual items of personal hygiene - these are, first of all, towels and toothbrushes. But if nevertheless it was not possible to avoid close contact with the infected person, consult a doctor immediately.