Reactions to Meningococcal (Bacterial Meningitis) Vaccines

Protect Yourself with an Experienced Vaccine Injury Lawyer

Meningococcal disease can cause serious infection of the blood and the tissues around the spinal cord and brain. Neisseria meningitidis bacteria also called meningococcus, are spread through saliva or spit and close or ongoing contact.

Though not the only cause of meningitis, meningococcus is the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in the U.S. for children 2 to 18 years old. Of the more than 1,000 individuals affected each year, 10-15% will die as a result of this disease.

Nearly 20% of the remaining survivors will:

• Lose a limb
• Develop nervous system disorders
• Become deaf
• Or suffer cognitive disabilities, seizures, or strokes

Who Is Most At-Risk for Meningococcal Disease?

Anyone can acquire meningococcal disease, but it is most common in infants less than a year old and individuals aged 16-21. Certain medical conditions, such as a lack of a spleen, can create increased risk.

Recent outbreaks on college campuses nationwide have highlighted the threats to students living in dorms, and therefore have amplified the number of vaccinations being given. In the United States, there are two kinds of meningococcal vaccines available. Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4 or MenACWY) is given to individuals 55 years of age and younger.

Meningitis Vaccine Side Effects

It's common for people to experience side effects after receiving a vaccination. In fact, the CDC states that about 50% of the people who get a meningococcal conjugate vaccine have mild side effects after receiving the vaccination, including fever or redness and pain where you got the shot. Given the severity of meningococcal disease, the benefits of MCV4 are considered to outweigh the risks.

According to the CDC, Meningococcal vaccine problems can include:

• Soreness, redness, or swelling where you got the shot
• Tiredness (fatigue)
• Headache
• Muscle or joint pain
• Fever or chills
• Nausea or diarrhea

Potential Meningitis Vaccine Injuries

Some patients may experience more serious complications after receiving a meningococcal vaccine. Occasionally, recipients develop Guillain-Barré syndrome, leading to neurological symptoms such as muscle weakness and tingling or numbing. In addition, an improperly administered vaccination may cause serious shoulder injuries.

Experiencing Shoulder Pain After a Vaccine or Surgical Procedure?

If you are experiencing a rotator cuff injury, frozen shoulder, and/or brachial neuritis after a surgical procedure or after receiving a vaccine, you may be entitled to compensation. Oftentimes, these procedures can cause sharp shoulder pain at the site of the injection. If you've felt permanent swelling or tenderness that lasts 6 or more months after the procedure, contact our firm immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Meningococcal Vaccine

What Are the Different Types of Meningococcal Vaccines and When Are TheyTypically Given?

There are two types of meningococcal vaccines, MenACWY and MenB:

• MenACWY should be given to teens and pre-teens; a booster dose should be given 4-5 years after the initial vaccine.
• MenB vaccines may be given to older teens between 16 and 18. The vaccine is typically administered in 2 doses.

For children younger than 10 and adults, MenACWY is only recommended for patients with certain risk factors. Likewise, MenB may be administered to children over 10 and adults who are at higher risk for certain types of meningitis.

Can Meningococcal Vaccines Cause Fever or Illness?

Yes, a small percentage of patients experience side effects including:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Nausea
• Or diarrhea after a vaccine

The MenB vaccine is more likely to cause side effects than MenACWY, though either could generate a reaction. These symptoms normally disappear 3-5 days after the vaccine was administered. If symptoms persist outside of this timeframe, patients may need to seek follow-up care to test for more serious complications.

Can Meningococcal Vaccines Cause Allergic Reactions?

Pre-filled syringes may contain latex, so patients with sensitivity should discuss inoculation alternatives with their doctor. Anyone who has experienced an allergic reaction after a vaccine should speak to their doctor about safety concerns before they receive further shots.

Can Meningococcal Vaccines Cause Meningitis?

No. A meningococcal vaccine is not “live”—it consists of proteins re-combined to mimic the bacteria that can cause meningitis. Even among populations with weak immune systems, the vaccine should not cause infection. However, it is advised that patients who do ill not receive the vaccine.

How Can I Get Help After a Vaccine Injury?

Families can file with the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) if the administering institution is covered; otherwise, they may file a civil lawsuit. A lawyer can help you gather the necessary documentation and fill out the VICP petition or begin the legal process.

What Can I Get From a Vaccine Claim?

Serious vaccine injury can result in disability or even wrongful death. This kind of tragedy can utterly devastate the family involved.

While nothing can make up for this kind of loss, filing for compensation either with the VICP or in court can help families recover:

• Medical costs covering complications
• Projected future medical costs
• Loss of consortium
• Legal fees

Do I Have a Case for Damages?

If you or a loved one experiences severe side effects after a meningococcal vaccine, it’s important to keep detailed records to be used as evidence down the line. Medical documents and bills should be copied or scanned so you have backups. Then, speak to a lawyer.

They can advise you on whether you have a claim and help you gather and organize the evidence and start the filing process. In a time that’s likely filled with stress, fear, and sadness, it’s important to have someone who knows the rules and procedures on your side.

Assistance With Vaccine-Related Injuries

At Jeffrey S. Pop & Associates, our experienced vaccine injury attorneys help clients nationwide who have been injured as a result of a vaccine. At your free initial consultation either by phone, email, or in person, we can begin determining if you have a valid case.

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) was created in 1986 to compensate individuals and their families who have suffered side effects from certain vaccines. This same fund covers the plaintiff's attorney fees whether your case is won or lost, as long as it is filed "in good faith and with a reasonable basis." This means that you can seek adequate compensation at no cost to you.

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