About Meningococcal Vaccines

Overview

Meningococcal vaccines protect against meningococcal disease. Meningococcal disease is caused by a bacterium called Neisseria meningiditis, also called meningococcus. Meningococcus bacteria are spread from person-to-person through infected saliva or upper respiratory mucus secretions. Meningococcus can be present in the nose and throat without leading to any illness, but it can lead to life threatening conditions such as meningitis and bloodstream infections.

Risk Factors for Meningococcal Disease

Some people have a greater risk (higher chance) of getting meningococcal disease. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), risk factors for meningococcal disease include:

• Age: Infants younger than one year, adolescents, young adults and the elderly are at highest risk.
• Close contact with infected individuals: Family members and healthcare workers are at highest risk.
• Living conditions: Crowded living environments, such as college dorms or military barracks can facilitate the spread of meningococcus.
• Immune system deficiencies: People with weakened immune systems such as those with HIV, sickle cell disease or people taking medications that suppress the immune system (chemotherapy for cancer) are at increased risk.

Meningococcus Vaccination Recommendations

CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for:

• Children: Children 2 months -10 years who are at increased risk
• Preteens and teens: All children should get the vaccine at the age of 11-12 as well as a booster at age 16.
• Adults: Adults over the age of 18 who are at increased risk due to health conditions that weaken the immune system, are traveling to areas of the world where the disease is common (areas of Africa) or work with the bacterium in a laboratory.

People who should not receive meningococcal vaccine include people who are allergic to any ingredient of the vaccine. People who are pregnant should discuss the possible benefits and risks with their healthcare provider to determine what is best for their situation.

Meningococcal Vaccines

There are currently three types of meningococcal vaccines available in the US. They protect against one or more serogroups (strains) of meningococcus bacteria. Here’s the latest guidance about them according to the CDC and FDA:

There are currently three types of meningococcal vaccines available in the US.

• MenACWY vaccines (also called meningococcal conjugate vaccines)
  • Menveo: This vaccine is active against N. meningitidis serogroups A, C, Y and W-135, and is approved for use in people 2 months through 55 years of age.
  • MenQuadfi: This vaccine is active against N. meningitidis serogroups A, C, Y and W, and is approved for use in people 2 months and older.
• MenB vaccines (also called serogroup B meningococcal vaccines)
  • Bexsero: This vaccine is active against N. meningitidis serogroup B, and is approved for use in people 10 through 25 years of age.
  • Trumenba: This vaccine is active against N. meningitidis serogroup B, and is approved for use in people 10 through 25 years of age.
• MenABCWY vaccine (also called pentavalent vaccine)
  • Penbraya: This vaccine is active against N. meningitidis serogroups A, B, C, Y and W, and is approved for use in people 10 through 25 years of age.

Differences across the available meningococcus vaccines may make certain vaccines more suitable to an individual’s needs. Currently, the number of meningococcal vaccine shots required depend on the age and risk factors of the individual. More research is needed to know exactly how long the meningococcal vaccines last and how much protection they provide. It is important to consult with the healthcare provider regarding specific vaccine recommendations.

What to Expect after Meningococcal Vaccination

• Meningococcal vaccine is given as an injection (shot), usually into the muscle of the upper arm or thigh.
• People who have a minor cold or illness can be vaccinated. A minor illness includes a low-grade fever (< 100.4F), a runny nose or cough, an ear infection, or mild diarrhea. People with a moderate or severe illness should usually wait until after recovery from the illness before receiving a meningococcal vaccine shot. Consult with the healthcare professional to determine if vaccine can be given or should be delayed for an individual situation.
• People who have had serious reactions to a meningococcal vaccine or any other vaccine should inform the healthcare professional to determine if meningococcal vaccine should be used.
• Common temporary side effects include:
  • Redness, pain or minor swelling at the injection site (where the shot was given)
  • Feeling tired or drowsy
  • Fever
  • Muscle ache
  • Irritability (in infants and young children)
  • Headache
• Serious severe allergic reactions are rare but may occur. Signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include hives, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, fast heartbeat, dizziness, or weakness. Call 9-1-1 or be taken to the emergency room if any of these symptoms occur shortly after receiving a vaccine.

It's important to note that meningococcal vaccines are generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, if you have any concerns or questions about the vaccine or its potential side effects, it's always best to consult with your healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health history and circumstances.