Bacteria in the lining of the brain and spinal cord can cause meningitis. The meningitis bacteria are spread by cough and saliva. Infection can progress to death within 24-48 hours or lead to permanent disabilities such as hearing loss, brain damage, or loss of limbs. Vaccinations can help prevent this infection.
All children and adolescents should get the first dose at age 11 or 12 years and a second dose at age 16 years.
Adolescents and young adults age 16 to 23 years may also be vaccinated with a meningococcal serogroup B vaccine, preferably at 16 to 18 years old.