rrently available. Immunisation of every child against these organisms can go a long way in decreasing mortality," said paediatrician Sharad Agarkhedkar.
A child has meningitis if it suffers from
- Excessive sleepiness or irritability
- Headache and vomiting
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Evolving rash on the body
HIB vaccine: H influenza causes 70% of meningitis in children below five years. Since its introduction in 2006, HIB vaccine has decreased the incidence of meningitis by almost 50%. It also protects against pneumonia and severe form of throat infection (epiglotitis). It is available in single as well as combination vaccine
Pneumococcal vaccine: Pneumococcal vaccine is available in India since 2006. It is a conjugate vaccine which can be used in children less than two years of age. The limiting factor for this vaccine is its high cost. Efforts are being made to reduce this cost. There are no reported side effects or contraindications
Meningococcal vaccine: Meningitis due to meningococcus is less common in India than developed countries. This vaccine is given to children who are at high risk, like teens entering boarding schools, college students, military recruits, and if there is decreased function of spleen.