Why Expanding Meningitis Vaccination Matters
As World Meningitis Day highlighted the diverse forms of meningitis, experts warned that vaccines targeting a single strain may not be enough to protect individuals from the full spectrum of this serious infection. Pediatric neurologist Jo Janette de la Calzada emphasized that even vaccinated individuals, particularly children, can still be affected by other strains of meningitis. “Kaya importante ‘yung vaccine kasi it will cover a lot of the invasive strains na in the hope na hindi talaga siya (individual) matamaan,” she noted, underscoring the broader protective goal of expanded vaccination.
Infectious disease specialists also cautioned that meningitis can recur in different forms, triggered by bacteria or viruses not covered by existing vaccines. “Pwede talaga, in a sense, kung ibang bacteria na naman. Ibang virus na naman ang [tumama],” explained Dr. de la Calzada. This reality is why public health advocates argue for a more comprehensive vaccination strategy that reduces the risk of severe outcomes across strains.
Current Vaccination Landscape in the Philippines
Data from the Meningitis Progress Tracker shows the Philippines faced a high burden in 2021, ranking second among 27 Asia-Pacific countries for meningitis cases and 32nd globally out of 194. UNICEF reports that nearly 40% of meningitis deaths occur in children under five, a statistic that underscores the urgency of improving vaccination coverage and access.
Health leaders stress that meningitis is not a single disease but a group of infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. While the nuanced etiology complicates prevention, it also highlights where vaccination can make a difference when coverage is broad and targeted to the most prevalent strains.
What the Public Health Officials Are Proposing
The National Immunization Program currently prioritizes two vaccines: pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae. Dr. Liza Antoinette Gonzales pointed out that these vaccines remain the most impactful in mitigating severe meningitis cases today. “I would focus maybe to expand the coverage for both of these vaccines first, maybe before introducing the meningococcal vaccine,” she said, cautioning that introducing new vaccines could shift attention away from essential ones.
Beyond private options for vaccines such as Japanese encephalitis and meningococcal disease, government efforts are aimed at including these vaccines in public health systems. Advocates also pressed for inclusion of meningitis vaccines in the Z Benefit Package under the Philippine Health Insurance Corp (PHIC) to improve affordability and access for families nationwide.
Why Early Awareness and Diagnosis Matter
Experts stressed that awareness and rapid recognition of meningitis symptoms are crucial for prompt treatment. Common indicators include severe headache, fever, stiff neck, seizures, and rash. Even with treatment, meningitis can lead to lasting complications such as seizures, learning disabilities, and other neurological issues. “That’s the problem with meningitis. Kasi you may survive it, but you can have permanent problems. And only time can tell how much you can gain,” cautioned Dr. de la Calzada.
In the long run, expanding vaccination coverage is seen not only as a safeguard against infection but also as a way to maintain normal lives for children and adults who might otherwise face long-term consequences. The spokespersons urged the public to stay informed about the disease and seek timely vaccination and care when needed.
A Call to Action
Leading organizations — including the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination, GSK Philippines, and professional groups such as the Philippine Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases — joined forces to advocate for stronger meningitis prevention and education. The goal is clear: save more lives, reduce disability, and ensure families can lead healthier, uninterrupted lives through effective vaccination strategies.
