WHAT'S
THE B WORD?
You're in the prime of your college years, ready for an exciting journey filled with new friendships, shared experiences, and unforgettable memories.
But here’s the truth: Meningitis B is a serious illness you need to be aware of, especially if you're planning to live in residence this fall.
WHAT'S THE B
WORD?
Together, Let's Beat Meningitis B
Meningitis B:
Rare but
Potentially Deadly
What is meningitis B? This disease, though rare, can have severe (as in life-threatening!) consequences. Even though it's not widespread, if you’re between 18 and 24 years old, meningitis B poses a real risk to your health and well-being.
Up to 1 in 10 cases can be fatal, often within 24 to 48 hours after the first symptoms. Up to 1 in 5 of those who survive may experience lifelong complications, such as hearing loss, mental disabilities or limb amputation.
So, how do you can catch meningitis B? Meningococcal bacteria (the bacteria that causes meningitis) can be spread easily through everyday activities oh-so-common on campus.
Beware
the B:
How it Spreads
Meningitis B is closer to home than you might think!
Recent outbreaks at Canadian post-secondary schools have sadly resulted in at least one death. So, this is not a drill! It's time to take the B-word seriously.
Real Risks,
Real Outbreaks
You can prevent meningitis B with vaccination! Adding "Talk to my health-care provider about protection against meningitis B" to your back-to-school checklist is a smart move, as Meningitis B vaccines are not part of the routine vaccination schedule.
By protecting yourself, you're not only safeguarding your health but also looking out for your friends and loved ones.
Here's The Good News
3
1,2
5
1
10
IN
CASES CAN
BE FATAL
10
IN
1
Sharing eating utensils, food and drinking glasses
Sharing saliva
(yes, that means kissing)
Communal living/dining
Close physical contact
All of the above
POP QUIZ!
Which if these behaviours could place you at higher risk?
CASES CAN
BE FATAL
CASES CAN
BE FATAL
4
1. Saboui M, et al. Epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease in Canada, 2012–2019. Can Commun Dis Rep. 2022;48(5):228-36.
2. https://www.nshealth.ca/news/public-health-investigating-two-cases-meningococcal-disease-dalhousie-university
3. https://www.meningitis.ca/get-vaccinated/meningococcal-vaccine
4. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/meningococcal-meningitis#:~:text=Even%20when%20the%
20disease%20is,%25%20to%2020%25%20of%20survivors
5.https://www.meningitis.ca/en/MeningitisOverview
References:
2
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06/23 | 10994