LIFESTYLE NEWS - Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is caused by bacteria and can lead to meningitis, which affects the lining around the brain and spinal cord, or sepsis, a serious bloodstream infection.
A new solution available in South Africa helps protect against four types of meningococcal bacteria – A, C, W and Y – and can be given to children from 12 months of age, adolescents and adults.
“Because meningococcal meningitis can become serious so quickly, prevention and awareness are crucial. We want families to know the signs to look out for and feel comfortable speaking to their healthcare provider about the prevention options available to them,” says Diane Buron, Medical Head for Vaccines, Sanofi South Africa.
Who is at risk?
Meningococcal disease can affect anyone, but young children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable. Adults can also develop the disease.
The bacteria can live in the nose and throat without causing illness and can spread through close contact, including coughing, sneezing, kissing or contact with saliva. In some cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause serious disease.
South Africa recorded 148 cases of invasive meningococcal disease in 2025.
Of these, 35% occurred in children under five, while 26% were among children and adolescents aged five to 17.
Almost half of the cases were caused by meningococcal types C, W and Y. Cases can occur throughout the year, although numbers tend to increase from winter into spring.
Know the symptoms of meningococcal meningitis
Early symptoms can resemble those of other common illnesses and may include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting.
Babies and young children may become unusually sleepy or irritable, feed less than usual, be difficult to wake or cry continuously.
Meningococcal infection can also cause sepsis. Warning signs include cold hands and feet, fast breathing and, sometimes, a rash that does not fade when pressed.
“Meningococcal meningitis is a medical emergency. If someone is seriously ill or getting worse quickly, seek urgent medical care,” says Buron. “Don’t wait for every symptom to appear before getting help.”
Vaccination can help reduce the risk
Vaccination is an important way to reduce the risk of meningococcal disease.
As South Africa moves from winter into spring, when cases tend to increase, families are encouraged to speak to their healthcare provider about meningococcal disease and whether they or their children may need protection.
Healthcare providers can discuss available options and advise based on age, previous vaccinations and individual risk.
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