Lets Talk about Meningitis B

As a Mom my responsibility is to always help protect my little ones, whether it’s teaching them to look both ways when crossing the street or dressing them warm so they don’t catch a cold. Moms are always there to help ensure their children are safe.  One of the most important decisions for parents today is vaccinating their children. Well, first off, let me tell you both Mason and Asher have received their required vaccinations, but did you know there are other vaccines out there that are not part of your child’s routine vaccination schedule?  This is why it is important to speak with your child’s pediatrician about which options are available for these vaccines.  To get this important message across, I have teamed up my bestie Lena. When you think about it whether it’s close friends, family members, fellow moms, this is something we should be talking about.For myself in particular I wanted to discuss Meningitis B in Canada. Meningitis B vaccine is not part of the routine childhood immunization schedule in Canada, but it is available.  Meningococcal B infection is caused by bacteria called meningococcal type B.  It can cause serious and potentially life-threatening infections including meningitis, an infection of the lining that covers the brain, and septicemia, which is an infection of the blood.  Permanent complications of infection can include brain damage and deafness.  About 1 in 10 people who get sick may pass away.  Meningitis spreads through close contact, like cold or flu.  Coughing or sneezing, sharing forks or spoons, kissing, and close physical contact can spread germs from person to person.

I’m hoping by reading this, I have peaked some interest in vaccination options you may have not been familiar with before and a disease which your children can help be protected against.  As I watch my little boys grow into adults they will always be my little minis and I can trust knowing since they have been vaccinated I will worry less about an illness that they may be exposed to.

*Although this post has been sponsored by a research-based pharmaceutical company, the opinions and language are my own.  If your child suffers from a side effect following immunization, please contact your healthcare provider or contact the Vaccine Safety Section at the Public Health Agency of Canada at 1-866-844-0018.