Indications
Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine (groups A, C, W-135 and Y) helps protect against meningococcal disease, a serious bacterial infection that can cause meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain) and blood poisoning (septicaemia). It is used for people at higher risk, such as Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, travellers to areas where the disease is common, people without a working spleen, laboratory workers, and during outbreaks.
How It Works
The vaccine contains purified sugar coatings (polysaccharides) from the outer surface of four groups of the meningococcus bacteria. It cannot cause the infection. The immune system learns to recognise these coatings and makes protective antibodies, usually within about 10 to 14 days. Protection from polysaccharide vaccines lasts a few years and is weaker in children under 2 years.
Dosage and Administration
The vaccine is given by a doctor or nurse as a single injection, usually under the skin, following the national schedule or travel requirements. The need for and timing of a booster dose is decided by the health professional. It is often given at least 10 days before travel.
Interactions
Medicines that weaken the immune system, such as high-dose corticosteroids, cancer treatment or immunosuppressants, may reduce the response to the vaccine. It can usually be given at the same visit as other vaccines, at a different site. Tell the vaccinator about all medicines you take.
Contraindications
Do not give to anyone who had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to any part of the vaccine. Vaccination is usually delayed during a high fever or acute illness; a mild cold is not a reason to delay.
Side Effects
Common effects are pain, redness and swelling at the injection site, mild fever, headache, tiredness and irritability, usually settling within 1 to 2 days.
Get urgent medical help for swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash, fainting, very high fever or fits after vaccination. People are usually observed for about 15 to 30 minutes after the injection.
Pregnancy and Lactation
The vaccine may be given in pregnancy and during breastfeeding when the risk of meningococcal disease is real, for example before pilgrimage or during an outbreak, as advised by a doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Tell the vaccinator about bleeding problems, a weak immune system or past reactions to vaccines. As with any vaccine, not everyone will be fully protected, so seek care quickly for symptoms of meningitis such as high fever, severe headache, stiff neck or a non-fading rash. Some fainting can occur with injections; sit or lie down if you feel faint.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely as it is given as a single measured dose by health professionals. An extra dose is not expected to cause serious harm.
Therapeutic Class
Vaccine (bacterial polysaccharide, meningococcal).
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C, do not freeze. Protect from light. Once reconstituted, use within the time stated on the pack. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.