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Welcome to the National Meningitis Association

The National Meningitis Association (NMA) is a nonprofit organization founded by parents whose children have died or live with permanent disabilities from meningococcal disease. We are dedicated to educating families, medical professionals and others about meningococcal disease and its prevention.

Meningococcal disease, sometimes called bacterial meningitis, is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that may cause death or disability within hours. However, it can be prevented through vaccination.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends meningococcal vaccination for all children at 11-12 with a booster at age 16.

Meningitis Stories

For video stories of those affected by meningococcal disease, please click here. Read other people's stories or submit your own.



Five Facts About Meningococcal
Disease and Prevention

  1. Each year, meningococcal disease strikes nearly 1,500 Americans and 11 percent of those infected will die.
  2. Adolescents and young adults are at greater risk for meningococcal disease than most, accounting for 15 percent of all cases. One out of seven who get the disease will die.
  3. Among those who survive, approximately 20 percent live with permanent disabilities, such as brain damage, hearing loss, loss of kidney function or limb amputations.
  4. Meningococcal disease is often misdiagnosed because its early symptoms are much like those of the flu.
  5. Health officials recommend routine vaccination at 11-12 years old with a booster dose at age 16 to protect preteens and teens against meningococcal disease.

Learn more about meningitis.
The National Meningitis Association, Inc. P.O. Box 725165 - Atlanta, GA 31139 • 1.866.366.3662 (1.866.FONE.NMA)

Disclaimer: The information contained in this National Meningitis Association (NMA) Web site is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment, and NMA recommends consultation with your clinician or other health care provider. Information on this Web site is provided for informational purposes only.

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