"Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacterium known as meningococcus. Some people carry this germ in their throat or nose without getting sick.
In rare instances, the germ overcomes the body's natural defenses, and causes serious diseases, including bacterial meningitis (an inflammation of the tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord), and meningococcemia (a widespread infection of the blood and other organs)."
From the Health Canada website, 2008
Immunization
The Men-C vaccine protects against infection from one of the most common types of meningococcal bacteria, type C.
It is provided free of charge as part of your child's immunization schedule. Contact your public health unit to make an appointment.