Meningitis Jab: At what age is meningitis vaccine given? Do I need a meningitis vaccine?

Meningitis is an acute inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known collectively as the meninges. The most common symptoms are fever, headache and neck stiffness.

Other symptoms include confusion or altered consciousness, vomiting and an inability to tolerate light or loud noises. Young children often exhibit only nonspecific symptoms, such as irritability, drowsiness, or poor feeding.

At what age is meningitis vaccine given?

CDC recommends routine MenACWY vaccination for All preteens and teens from 11 to 12 years old with a booster dose at 16 years old. Children and adults are at increased risk for meningococcal disease.

Do I need a meningitis vaccine?

CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for all preteens and teens. In certain situations, CDC also recommends other children and adults get meningococcal vaccines. Below is more information about which meningococcal vaccines, including booster shots, CDC recommends for people by age.