National Meningitis Association – A nonprofit organization founded by parents to educate parents, students, health professionals and public policy makers about the dangers of meningococcal disease and vaccination efforts.

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The National Meningitis Association, which was founded by parents whose children either died or survived with permanent disabilities as a result of meningococcal disease, ended active operations on December 31, 2022, after 20 years. Many of our advocates are continuing to share their stories through Immunize.org and Vaccinate Your Family. We encourage you to visit some of the excellent online resources for up-to-date meningococcal and other adolescent vaccination information, such as Immunize.org or the CDC website. We extend a sincere thank you to our advocates and our many supporters for your unwavering dedication throughout the years. We encourage all adolescents to get meningococcal vaccines, as well as other adolescent immunizations, and encourage vaccination across the lifespan. Remember, “Get educated, get vaccinated.”

Sincerely, The Board

About Meningococcal Disease

Meningococcal disease is a rare, potentially deadly, bacterial infection. It is, however, a vaccine-preventable disease. It can strike quickly and can lead to devastating complications such as hearing loss, brain or kidney damage or limb amputations.

Resources

Click below for a range of resources. Browse FAQs, stories and more.

NMA Advocates

Learn more about our stories and experiences with meningococcal disease Click here

Adam

T.E.A.M. member
Michigan

“As a high school educator, I feel it’s important that I share my experience with meningitis so my students don’t have to go through the same ordeals I did.”

Claudette

M.O.M. of Cherice
Texas

“Cherice left behind a legacy of leadership and volunteerism,” said Claudette. “With that in mind I am working to help educate parents about the dangers …”

Greg & Laurie

T.E.A.M. member
California

“ Laurie and Greg’s daughter Sara was a freshman at San Diego State University when she called home one evening to say she didn’t feel well. Despite feeling sick…”

Carl

T.E.A.M. member
Washington

“ Carl was a freshman in high school when he came home from playing football complaining that he didn’t feel well. The next day, he had flu-like symptoms… ”

Meningitis on Campus

Teens and young adults are at increased risk of getting meningococcal disease. Those who attend college and live on campus are at slightly higher risk compared to those who do not. Infectious diseases tend to spread wherever large groups of people gather—such as dormitories and classrooms.