Your child is getting older, isn't he? There are many opportunities for school, tutoring, sports, and socializing with friends. When you are so social, there is also a risk of contracting some diseases. One such dangerous disease that we need to be especially careful about is meningitis. This is a condition caused by inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. So, as parents, we need to do everything we can to protect our children from this disease. Let's see how.
The main shield against meningitis: vaccination! (Vaccine)
Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to prevent meningitis. In particular, vaccination against meningococcal bacteria, which cause bacterial meningitis, which is most common in young children, is very important.
Simply put, this vaccine prepares the child's body to fight meningitis. The World Health Organization (WHO) and health departments in many countries recommend that all children between the ages of 11 and 18 be given this vaccine. Usually, the first dose is recommended at the age of 11-12, and the second dose (booster) is recommended at around the age of 16. However , it is best to ask your doctor for the most accurate information about this and how it is given according to our country's national vaccination program .
Remember, if your child is going to a sleep-away camp or university dormitory, don't think twice about getting this vaccine, as children are in close proximity to each other in such settings, which increases the risk of spreading the disease.
| Meningococcal Vaccine is especially recommended for those who: | |
|---|---|
| Risk category | Description |
| People exposed during an outbreak | When meningitis is spreading in an area, to those who live in the area. |
| People traveling to areas where the disease is prevalent | If the area you are traveling to or living in is a region where meningitis is common. |
| Those undergoing military training | Because they train closely in groups. |
| People with weakened immune systems | People with HIV, those who have had their spleen removed or not working, and those with other immune system diseases. |
What types of meningitis vaccines are available?
There are several types of meningococcal vaccines available worldwide. There are two main types.
1. Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4): This provides protection against several major types of bacteria.
2. Serogroup B meningococcal vaccine: This specifically protects against type 'B' meningococcal bacteria.
The brand names of these (such as Menactra, Trumenba) may vary from country to country. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor to decide which vaccine is best for your child, how to get it, and how many doses are needed.
Let's prevent the spread of the disease: Let's follow these simple practices
The good news is that meningitis cannot be spread by breathing in the air that someone with the disease has breathed. The bacteria that cause it cannot survive for long outside the human body.
However, the disease can be spread by being in close or prolonged contact with an infected person . This bacteria lives in the back of our nose and throat. About 10% of the population may be carriers of this bacteria without showing any symptoms.
Therefore, it is very important to follow good hygiene practices.
| What to do (Do) | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap. | Do not share food, water bottles, glasses, or cutlery with others. |
| Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing. | Do not share tissues or towels with others. |
| Take care of your personal hygiene. | Do not share lip products such as lip gloss and lipstick with others. |
Another important thing to remember is that someone with bacterial meningitis can spread the disease to others for up to 24 hours after starting antibiotics . So if you suspect your child has been exposed to someone with meningitis, see a doctor right away. A few days of antibiotics may be enough to prevent your child from getting the disease.
Strengthening the immune system: The best defense against disease
A strong immune system is a natural defense against many diseases. It also helps prevent viral and bacterial infections that cause meningitis. So help your child develop these simple, healthy habits.
- A well-balanced diet: Provide a diet rich in vegetables and fruits.
- Adequate sleep: Make sure your child is getting the sleep they need.
- Regular exercise: Engage in sports or other forms of exercise.
- Keeping your child away from bad habits: Keep your child completely away from things like smoking, drugs, and alcohol.
These things will be a great help to protect your child not only from meningitis, but also from many other diseases.
Take-Home Message
- Meningitis is a serious disease, especially bacterial meningitis, which can be very dangerous.
- The best and most effective way to protect yourself from this disease is to get the meningococcal vaccine . Be sure to talk to your doctor about this.
- Good hygiene practices, especially not sharing personal items (water bottles, spoons), are very important to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Keep your child's immune system strong with a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and exercise.
- If you have even the slightest suspicion that you have been exposed to a person with meningitis, seek medical advice immediately.
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