Common Signs and Symptoms:
Meningococcal disease is a serious bacterial illness. It can cause fever, fatigue, and blood infections or sepsis, (an overwhelming infection of the whole body). It can also cause bacterial meningitis. Meningitis is an infection of fluid surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. Meningitis can cause you to: become deaf, have problems with your nervous system, become mentally retarded, or suffer seizures or strokes.
It is most common in infants less than one year of age and people with certain medical conditions (such as lack of a spleen). College students who live in dormitories have an increased risk of getting meningococcal disease. If you are moderately or severely ill, please wait until you recover to get vaccinated. People with mild illnesses are OK to receive the vaccine. Pregnant women can be vaccinated with the Menomune vaccine
Although the possibility is extremely rare, patients should be aware that any vaccine may cause a shock-like or anaphylactic reaction. For your protection, MinuteClinic recommends the following precautions:
- Remain in the clinic waiting area for 20 minutes after receiving your vaccination.
- Alert the practitioner if you experience any systemic allergic reaction.
All MinuteClinic practitioners are trained to respond to anaphylactic reactions and will see that you receive immediate medical attention.