Vaccine Talk

Vaccine
Talk

(Egyptian Edition)

"Everything you need to know about

vaccines in Egypt"

Cochlear Implants and Vaccination Recommendations

Summary of CDC Guidance on Preventing Meningitis in Cochlear Implant Users

Overview

Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord. People with cochlear implants are at increased risk for certain types of bacterial meningitis. Vaccines can help prevent this serious infection. The CDC provides specific recommendations for people with cochlear implants to ensure optimal protection.

Leading Causes of Bacterial Meningitis

  • Haemophilus influenzae
  • Neisseria meningitidis (causes meningococcal meningitis)
  • Streptococcus pneumoniae (causes pneumococcal meningitis)

General Vaccination Recommendations for People with Hearing Loss

The CDC does not have special vaccination recommendations for people with hearing loss. Vaccination schedules for people with hearing loss are the same as for those without, based on age and health conditions.

Pneumococcal Vaccination Recommendations

  • Children younger than 2 years with cochlear implants: Should receive PCV13 or PCV15 as per the Childhood Immunization Schedule.
  • Older children who missed infant vaccinations: May need PCV13 or PCV15.
  • Children 2 years or older: Should also receive PPSV23.
  • Timing: All recommended pneumococcal shots should be given at least 2 weeks before cochlear implant surgery for maximum protection. No extra shots are needed if already up to date.
  • Adults with cochlear implants: If never vaccinated, should receive one shot of PCV15 or PCV20. If PCV15 is used, follow with PPSV23. Shots should be given at least 2 weeks before surgery. No extra shots if already up to date.
  • People with a history of pneumococcal meningitis: Should follow CDC's pneumococcal vaccination guidance.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) Vaccination Recommendations

  • Children younger than 5 years: Should receive Hib vaccines according to the Childhood Immunization Schedule.
  • Timing: Hib vaccinations should be up to date at least 2 weeks before cochlear implant surgery. No extra shots if already up to date.
  • Children with past Hib meningitis: Those who had Hib meningitis before age 2 may need additional shots depending on current age. Those who had Hib meningitis at age 2 or older do not need more shots.
  • Older children and adults: CDC does not recommend Hib vaccination specifically for older children or adults with cochlear implants, as data do not support increased risk.

Meningococcal Vaccination Recommendations

  • Preteens and teens: Should receive MenACWY vaccine as per the Preteen/Teen Immunization Schedule. Teens may also receive MenB vaccine.
  • Younger children and adults: CDC does not recommend meningococcal vaccination specifically for these groups with cochlear implants, as data do not indicate increased risk.

Key Points

  • Vaccination is crucial for people with cochlear implants to prevent meningitis.
  • Recommended vaccines include pneumococcal, Hib (for young children), and meningococcal (for preteens and teens).
  • Vaccines should be administered at least two weeks before cochlear implant surgery for best protection.
  • No additional vaccines are needed for people with hearing loss unless recommended for their age group or health status.

References

Cochlear