Men5CV Vaccine

19.04.2024

Men5CV Vaccine

Why in the news?                                                                                                                                                                       

According to recent news, Nigeria has become the first country in the world to roll out Men5CV, a new vaccine recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) targeting 5 strains of meningococcus bacteria.

About Men5CV Vaccine:

• It protects against A, C, W, Y, and X strains of meningococcus bacteria, all of which can cause meningitis and blood poisoning.
• It has been recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
• This vaccine and emergency vaccination activities are funded by the vaccine alliance Gavi.
• The development and deployment of Men5CV is supported by international collaboration and funding from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the UK Government.
• This support is part of a larger global strategy to eliminate meningitis by 2030.
• The vaccine campaign targets more than one million people aged 1-29 in the affected areas, which is known for its acute and severe consequences, including inflammation of the brain and spinal cord and potential death within 24 hours. Represents progress in the fight against disease.

About Meningitis:

• This is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the membranes (meninges) that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
• There are many causes of meningitis, including viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic pathogens.
• Bacterial meningitis, specifically caused by meningococcus bacteria, is a particular concern in Africa and can also result in septicemia (blood poisoning).
• A region of 26 countries known as the "African Meningitis Belt"

Major symptoms of meningitis:

• This often includes headache, fever, and stiff neck.

                                                                 Source: Down to earth