If your child is between 14 and 18 years old, 
you can have it vaccinated against Meningococcus, a bacterium that can cause meningitis. This spring children living in The Netherlands will receive an invitation by mail (post) to get this injection. It is provided free of charge by the Dutch national immunisation program. Some 14-year-olds did already get this shot last year. The shot ensures that the body is protected against the meningococcal bacterium. After the injection your child cannot become sick anymore for example by kissing or if someone sneezes or coughs.
Note: Since May 2018 also toddlers at the age of 14 months get a shot against meningococcal disease. This immunization is administered by Youth Healthcare.
Meningitis
- Meningitis is an inflammation of the membrane around the brain.
- Meningitis occurs mainly in children and young adults.
- Possible symptoms include: High fever, a spotty skin, a stiff neck, repeated vomiting, severe headache and drowsiness.
- Babies don't want to drink and cry a lot or groan.
- Call your GP if your child has more of these symptoms
- Is your baby younger than 3 months? Call your GP immediately if your baby only has a fever.
- If your GP suspects meningitis, you or your child should go to the hospital immediately.
Read more about How the vaccination works and What if your child is not in the age group.
This news item is a translation of a post by Thuisarts.nl. The information is not intended to replace a consultation with a GP.
For personal advice, please contact your GP. Please read our disclaimer.