On call: Vaccine may help control a lethal infection
On call
Vaccine may help control a lethal infection
Q. My 18-year-old daughter has just been accepted at college. She is up to date on all her immunizations except for a meningitis vaccination, which the university health service recommends but does not require. Do you think she should get the shot?
A. Bacterial meningitis is a life-threatening infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Over the years, three types of bacteria have accounted for most of the cases in Americans. A vaccine is available for each, but their effectiveness varies.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.