The UPEI Health and Wellness Centre will offer walk-in clinics for the Meningitis B (MenB) vaccine for students on August 29, and on September 6, 13, and 20, from 8:30 to noon. Students are asked to bring their PEI health card or proof of international insurance, and their student ID. They can also request an appointment for a vaccine by emailing the Health and Wellness Centre at healthcentre@upei.ca. Please note: the vaccine supply is limited.

MenB vaccines prevent against a type of meningococcal disease that targets the lining of the brain and spinal cord and is potentially life-threatening. With a high mortality rate (10%), meningococcal disease is a medical emergency. It can cause death within days if prompt antibiotic treatment is delayed. The infection typically triggers symptoms such as severe headache, sudden high fever, skin rashes, vomiting, and a stiff neck. Among survivors, 10% to 20% have long-term complications, which may include hearing loss, neurologic disabilities, and digit or limb amputations.

The disease spreads between people through saliva and respiratory fluids. Engaging in activities with infected people, such as sharing drinks, vapes, or kissing, may put you at risk. The risk is higher for young adults up to the age of 25 years and those who are living in a dormitory or crowded space as the bacterium spreads quickly through large groups.

MenB vaccine is highly recommended by the Canadian Immunization Guide to protect you from this vaccine-preventable disease. Beginning April 2023, PEI began offering free MenB vaccine to students attending a post-secondary school. To learn more about MenB, visit Meningococcal vaccine: Canadian Immunization Guide - Canada.ca.