Accident – Death – Obituary News : Can you put a price on protecting your children from a potentially deadly meningitis-causing bacterial infection?
Right now, in Kingston, Ontario, the cost is approximately $320 per child for a two-dose vaccine recommended by public health officials. This vaccine is crucial in preventing invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), a rare but life-threatening bacterial infection that can lead to meningitis and septicemia. According to Health Canada, up to 10% of people infected with IMD die, and complications can include deafness, limb amputations, and permanent brain damage. With almost 200 cases in Canada per year on average, the threat of IMD is real.
Most IMD cases are caused by five types of bacteria, with group B being the most common in Canada. In response to the recent spike in local cases, Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington Public Health are recommending the meningococcal B vaccine for individuals under age 25. However, unlike routine vaccines, this one comes with a cost, making it inaccessible to many without private insurance coverage.
Crystal Harris, a parent in Kingston, expressed her shock at the cost of vaccinating her teenagers, noting the privilege of having insurance coverage. For those without coverage, the $160 per dose price tag can be a significant barrier. Dr. Piotr Oglaza, medical officer of health at KFL&A Public Health, acknowledges the financial burden but emphasizes the importance of vaccination as the best protection against IMD.
In recent months, Kingston has seen an increase in IMD type B cases, prompting public health warnings. This rise in cases is not isolated to Kingston, with other regions in Canada also reporting outbreaks. While IMD is rare, outbreaks can have serious consequences, particularly for children under five and adolescents aged 15 to 19.
Accessibility to vaccines is a critical issue, with funding and coverage varying across provinces. The cost of vaccines can be prohibitive for low-income individuals, further exacerbating disparities in healthcare access. The Canadian Public Health Association highlights the importance of considering the risk-benefit of vaccination, especially in the face of increasing hesitancy post-pandemic.
As discussions around vaccine accessibility continue, the need for public funding and support for vaccines against diseases like IMD remains crucial. By addressing barriers to access and promoting vaccination, we can work towards a healthier and safer community for all..