This 1966 microscope image reveals five clusters of Group-B Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. AP Photo
Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are the only provinces that offer free meningitis B vaccinations to post-secondary students. This rare but deadly bacterial infection can be prevented with vaccines that typically cost $300 or more for two doses. With the upcoming influx of new students in September, other provinces are being urged to provide these vaccines for free.
Dr. Ronald Gold, a medical adviser for the Meningitis Foundation Canada, emphasizes the urgency: “Meningococci can kill within hours. The best protection is vaccination.”
Meningitis B, caused by Group B meningococcus bacteria, leads to a severe illness called invasive meningococcal disease. This disease, although rare, affects fewer than one in 100,000 Canadians but can be fatal in up to 10% of cases. Survivors often face severe consequences such as hearing loss, neurological disabilities, or amputations.
Teens and young adults are particularly susceptible to carrying these bacteria. Dr. Gold explains that behaviours common among this age group, such as coughing, sneezing, singing, kissing, and sharing utensils, promote the spread of meningococci. Therefore, he advocates for making the MenB vaccine freely available to all post-secondary students.
Kai Matthews’ story highlights the deadly speed of this infection. After developing a high fever and body aches, Kai was diagnosed with meningitis and succumbed to the infection within 30 hours. Following his death, his family founded BforKai to raise awareness and advocate for MenB vaccinations.
In this archived photo, Allen Smith receives a free bacterial meningitis vaccine in West Hollywood, California, on Monday, April 15, 2013. AP Photo
In 2023, Nova Scotia began offering free MenB vaccines to new post-secondary students and new military recruits living in congregate settings. Prince Edward Island followed suit, expanding eligibility to all post-secondary students, including those studying out-of-province.
Other provinces and territories, however, typically only cover the costly vaccine for those in close contact with confirmed cases or children at high risk due to immune system disorders. The first MenB vaccine was approved in Canada in 2013, yet its public funding remains limited due to cost-benefit analyses by health ministries.
The Public Health Agency of Canada reports approximately 115 cases of invasive meningococcal disease annually, with Group B strains causing about 50% of these cases. The prevalence of Group B strains is due to vaccination against other strains and the genetic variability of Group B.
Despite periodic outbreaks, the incidence of invasive meningococcal disease has generally decreased over time. For instance, Ontario saw 30 confirmed cases and three deaths from invasive meningococcal disease in 2023, with Group B being the most common strain.
The high cost of MenB vaccines remains a significant barrier. Without public funding, individuals must pay out-of-pocket, which can deter vaccination due to the perception that if a vaccine isn't covered by the government, it may not be necessary. Matthews stresses the need for a change in policy across Canada, following the lead of Nova Scotia and P.E.I.
