Vaccination can be your best defense against many diseases. And meningococcal meningitis is no exception. That's because getting vaccinated can help protect you from serious disease.

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Because vaccination offers the best protection possible—you may be surprised that the goals for meningococcal meningitis vaccination coverage in the United States have not been met (these recommendations were set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]). In fact, in 2006, less than 12% of teens ages 13 to 17 were vaccinated against meningococcal meningitis. So, this worldwide disease has more chances to travel.

Mass vaccination campaigns are recommended in those areas of the world that are in an epidemic phase, as well as those that are on "alert." This most often happens in the African meningitis belt—which is prone to epidemics of meningococcal disease. It is estimated that appropriate mass vaccination campaigns could prevent 70% of cases.

If you need information about recommended vaccines, appropriate ages, and timing—current vaccination schedules are at your fingertips.