Meningitis is a serious infection of the brain and spinal cord, as Texas Medical Association physician leader Maria Monge, MD, explains in this video. The “B” strain of the bacteria can cause serious outbreaks, leaving those affected with brain damage, hearing loss, and even death. A vaccine can prevent this illness.
It travels quickly and can leave its victims with permanent complications or death within a matter of hours.
Multiple types – also called serogroups or strains – of the bacteria exist. The B strain causes most cases of meningococcal disease in adolescents and young adults, and can lead to outbreaks of meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord).
“A sudden onset of fever, headache, and stiff neck are common,” says Dr. Monge. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and confusion. Sometimes a patient might develop a dark purplish rash, said Dr. Monge. The disease is spread by sharing a drink or kissing, those kinds of activities, she said. People living in close quarters like college dormitories or military barracks are most at risk of spreading the disease.
Meningococcal B is responsible for more than half of all meningitis cases.
The CDC recommends anyone age 10 or older at risk for meningococcal disease get vaccinated against serogroup B, particularly those who are at high risk or have a weakened immune system. People living in very close quarters like dorms or barracks should get vaccinated. Watch the video for recommended shot schedule.
This TMA video, infographic and news release are part of a monthly TMA series highlighting contagious diseases that childhood and adult vaccinations can prevent. Some diseases covered thus far are: Measles; Human papillomavirus (HPV); Chickenpox and shingles; Pertussis (whooping cough); Rubella (also known as German measles); Rotavirus; Polio; Mumps; Tetanus; and Hepatitis B. Visit www.texmed.org/TalkToPatients for more information and to view the series and materials.
Be Wise -- Immunize!

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