What are the symptoms of Meningitis B?
Early symptoms can be hard to distinguish because they can be similar to those of the flu. However, meningitis B can progress quickly and can be fatal — sometimes in as little as 24 hours.
WHO IS AT RISK?
You’re doing everything you can to help protect yourself or your child, but meningitis B* vaccination could be one thing you’re missing.
Here’s what you need to know
The five most common types/strains of the bacteria that cause invasive meningococcal diseases (IMD) are A, B, C, W135, and Y. In Canada, strain B was responsible for the most cases of IMD. Vaccination against meningitis B is not part of your child’s routine vaccination schedule. Your child may be missing protection against meningitis B.
Meningitis B can be spread through coughing and sneezing, sharing drinks and eating utensils, kissing, and living in close quarters.
49.5% of IMD cases in Canada were caused by meningitis B from 2012 through 2022.
Vaccination against meningitis B is not part of your child’s routine vaccination schedule, so there’s a chance that you or your loved one has not been vaccinated.
How is meningitis spread?
The bacteria that cause meningitis B live in the nose and throat and are spread from one person to another by contact. They can be spread easily through everyday behaviours, including:
Coughing and sneezing
Sharing drinks and utensils
Kissing
Living in close quarters
Don’t risk your or your child’s health. Talk to a doctor today.
Meningitis can have serious consequences, which is why vaccination is important to consider. The decision to vaccinate against meningitis B relies on an important conversation with a healthcare provider. Ask a healthcare provider about meningitis B vaccination.
Life after meningitis
Up to 1 in 3 survivors may experience lifelong complications.
Visible consequences
Meningitis B can result in septicemia, which may lead to the requirement of digit or limb amputation.
Invisible consequences
Meningitis B attacks the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to hearing loss and mental disabilities.
* Invasive meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis group B strains.
