Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is a serious infection caused by a germ (bacteria) called Neisseria meningitidis. The best way to protect your child from IMD is through vaccination with the Men-C-ACYW vaccine. Manitoba is currently experiencing an IMD outbreak and has expanded its immunization program to help keep affected families and communities safe.
What Is Invasive Meningococcal Disease (IMD)?
IMD is a serious illness caused by a bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. There are five main types: A, B, C, Y and W. Many people carry this germ in their nose or throat without feeling sick, but it can spread to the blood or brain and cause serious infections that may lead to brain damage, hearing loss or even death.
For more information on Meningococcal Disease, check out: Meningococcal Disease (Neisseria meningitides) | Health | Province of Manitoba
What’s Happening in Manitoba Right Now?
Since December 2023, Manitoba has seen more cases of IMD caused by the W strain. Most cases are in the Northern Health Region and Indigenous communities. Babies under 12 months are most at risk. That’s why babies aged six weeks to under 12 months can now get up to two extra doses of the Men-C-ACYW vaccine for free if they:
- live in an Indigenous community in Manitoba
- travel often to an Indigenous community,
- have household visitors from Indigenous communities
Once your baby turns 12 months, they should receive two routine doses of Men-C-ACYW vaccine:
- first at 12 months of age
- second in Grade 6
Did you know?
Children born between January 1, 2020, and February 28, 2023, can also get the Men-C-ACYW vaccine for added protection against all major strains of meningococcal bacteria.
Learn more Routine Immunization for Schedule
If your child has not received their routine meningococcal vaccine, you can book a vaccine appointment:
- with your child’s doctor or nurse
- through your local public health office, health centre or nursing station
For more information about who can get vaccines in Manitoba, visit:
www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/vaccineeligibility.html
What are the Side Effects of the Men-C-ACYW Vaccine?
Common, mild reactions to the vaccine may include:
- sore arm
- fever
- headache
- feeling tired or unwell for a day or two
Did you know?
Aspirin® (ASA) should not be given to children, as it can cause a rare but serious illness called Reye’s Syndrome. Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of Acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Tempra®) or ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®)
Who Should Not Get the Meningococcal Vaccine?
Talk to your health-care provider if your child:
- has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine
- is allergic to any ingredients in the vaccine (see Product Monograph for list of ingredients: https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/diseases/docs/nimenrix-pm.pdf)
- has a high fever (wait until they feel better)
Note: A mild illness, like a runny nose or slight cough, does not mean your child should skip getting a dose.
The Men-C-ACYW vaccine is safe and effective. Health Canada approves all vaccines only after carefully reviewing how well they work and how safe they are. It is much safer to get the vaccine than to get meningococcal disease.
For more information on the Meningococcal Conjugate Quadrivalent (Men-C-ACYW) vaccine, check out: Meningococcal Conjugate Quadrivalent (Men-C-ACYW) Vaccine Public Health – Fact Sheet
What are Other Ways I Can Protect My Child against IMD?
You can help prevent illness by:
- washing hands often
- covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- not sharing food, drinks or personal items like water bottles or lip balm
If you have questions about meningococcal disease or vaccines, talk to your health-care provider or contact:
Health Links–Info Santé
Winnipeg: 204-788-8200
Toll-free: 1-888-315-9257
www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/div/index.html
Protect Our People MB
