title: Immunisation against bacterial meningitis.
abstract: The vaccine potential of different surface antigens of encapsulated bacteria is considered. It is concluded that only the capsular polysaccharides provide good protection. Polysaccharides are, however, thymus-independent antigens and the antibody response is strongly influenced by the age of the recipient and his naturally acquired immunity. For a long-lasting immunity the induction of mainly IgG antibodies is essential. Such a response can easily be induced by conjugates in which the polysaccharides have been attached to thymus-dependent carriers.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000818:Animals; D000917:Antibody Formation; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D001428:Bacterial Vaccines; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization; D007223:Infant; D008581:Meningitis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D051379:Mice; D011135:Polysaccharides, Bacterial / Q000276:immunology
chemical_list: D001428:Bacterial Vaccines; D011135:Polysaccharides, Bacterial