Vaccines Given to Newborns in Ghana (Meningitis A Vaccine)

The Meningococcal A Vaccine Immunization Schedule

The meningococcal conjugate vaccine contains four(4) strains of the meningococcal bacteria. Meningococcal A contains the strains ACWY. The vaccine is given at 18 months of age through an injection in the right upper arm.

Meningococcal A is a conjugate vaccine and cannot cause disease in vaccinated persons. 

Meningitis

Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening infection that can cause inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The condition is caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. However, a well-known bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis is a major cause of vaccine-preventable meningitis. Meningitis is most commonly seen in infants, children, and young adults, making vaccination an important public health measure for the prevention of this disease. Outbreaks of N. meningitidis occur frequently in some parts of Ghana, especially during the harmattan season.

In addition, children with certain medical conditions, such as immune deficiencies or sickle cell disease, are at increased risk.

Meningitis can affect people of all ages, but it is most commonly seen in infants, children, and young adults. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are approximately 1.2 million cases of bacterial meningitis each year, resulting in over 135,000 deaths globally.

Meningitis is typically spread through respiratory or throat secretions, such as coughing or sneezing. The condition can also be spread through close contact with an infected person, such as sharing utensils or kissing. People who live in close quarters are at increased risk for meningitis outbreaks.

Symptoms of Meningitis:

The symptoms of meningitis can vary depending on the age of the patient and the cause of the infection. Common symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and confusion or altered mental status. In infants, symptoms may include irritability, poor feeding, and a bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the head).

Meningitis is a serious condition that can have devastating consequences if left untreated including visual, hearing and cognitive impairments in survivors. The death rate from meningitis is very high due to the rapid progression of the disease in affected persons.

Some countries recommend a second dose of the meningococcal A vaccine for teenagers.