Meningitis is a serious disease caused by *Neisseria meningitidis* (腦膜炎雙球菌). This bacterium can spread through respiratory droplets or direct contact with the respiratory secretions of an infected person.

Risks of Meningococcal Infection

Meningococcal infection can lead to severe conditions, such as:

• Meningococcal septicemia (腦膜炎雙球菌血症)
• Epidemic meningitis (流行性腦膜炎)

In severe cases, meningococcal infection can even result in shock, brain damage, or death. Additionally, invasive meningococcal infections may cause complications such as arthritis, endophthalmitis (eye inflammation), pneumonia, or myocarditis.

Meningococcal B Vaccine: An Effective Weapon Against Type B Meningitis

In addition to the meningococcal ACWY vaccine (腦膜炎雙球菌ACWY型疫苗), there is now the meningococcal B vaccine (腦膜炎雙球菌B型疫苗), which effectively prevents invasive meningococcal diseases caused by the B strain of *Neisseria meningitidis*.

How Is the Meningococcal B Vaccine Administered?

The meningococcal B vaccine is administered via intramuscular injection. Depending on age, 2 to 4 doses are required to achieve full effectiveness.

Recommended Vaccination Schedule:

The vaccination schedule for the meningococcal B vaccine varies based on age and immune needs. Below is the currently recommended schedule:

• Infants aged 2 to 5 months: Should receive an initial course of 2 to 3 doses, followed by a booster dose.
• Infants aged 6 to 11 months: Should receive 2 doses, followed by a booster dose.
• Children aged 12 to 23 months: Should receive 2 doses, followed by a booster dose.
• Children aged 2 to 10 years: Should receive 2 doses, with some children potentially requiring an additional booster dose.
• Adolescents and adults aged 11 years and older: Should receive 2 doses, with a booster dose possibly needed depending on individual health conditions.
• Adults aged 50 years and older: There is currently no data available specific to adults over 50.

Important Reminder:

Please consult a doctor to learn more about the meningococcal B vaccine and the vaccination schedule suitable for you or your child.

Conclusion

Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening disease. Vaccination with the meningococcal B vaccine is an effective way to prevent type B meningitis. To protect your health and that of your family, consult a doctor to learn more about the meningococcal B vaccine.