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Meningitis

Learn about meningitis prevention, symptoms, and available resources.

Meningitis is an infection of the tissue (called the “meninges”) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord that can lead to serious complications or even death. Many different kinds of viruses and bacteria (germs) can cause meningitis, but there are vaccines available to help prevent it.

Residents are encouraged to contact their health care provider or visit a local pharmacy to find an accessible vaccine clinic. Contact the Mayor’s Health Line for free, confidential, multilingual health information and referral services at 617-534-5050. The Mayor’s Health Line helps all residents regardless of immigration status.

Prevention

The best way to prevent meningitis is to get vaccinated. There are many routine childhood vaccines that help to prevent meningitis.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all adolescents receive the meningococcal ACWY vaccine with a first dose at 11–12 years of age and a booster at 16 years. The meningococcal B vaccine is recommended for certain individuals at increased risk and may also be given to adolescents and young adults ages 16–23 years (preferably at 16–18 years).

 

People at higher risk include:

  • those living in close quarters such as college residence halls,
  • individuals without a spleen or with certain medical conditions,
  • microbiologists exposed to the bacteria,
  • and travelers to high-risk areas.

Talk with your health care provider to determine if you need the vaccine.

Learn more

 

You can help prevent the spread of many viruses and bacteria by washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Avoid sharing food, drinks, or eating utensils with other people to help stop the spread of germs.

Meningococcal Disease

Meningococcal disease is a serious infection. It often causes meningitis, which is an infection around the brain and spinal cord. Learn more about the disease and how to prevent infection by clicking the button below.

Learn more

Symptoms

There is both viral and bacterial meningitis that are spread through different ways. Many of the viruses that cause meningitis are spread through saliva (spit) or feces (stool). The bacteria that can cause meningitis are usually spread from person-to-person through contact with infected saliva.
 
Anyone who has or observes these symptoms should contact a health care provider right away. Some cases of meningitis are very serious, leading to permanent neurologic problems, amputation of limbs, loss of hearing, seizures or strokes, and even death. In some infants, the only signs of meningitis may be crankiness or tiredness and poor feeding. Babies with meningitis usually run a fever, but not always.

Symptoms of meningitis include:

  • Fever
  • Severe and constant headache
  • Stiff neck or neck pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Rash
  • Changes in behavior such as confusion, sleepiness, and trouble waking up can also be important symptoms.
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