Indications
Meningococcal Vaccine (conjugate vaccine against serogroups A, C, W and Y, often written ACWY) is used to protect against invasive meningococcal disease, such as meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain) and septicaemia (blood poisoning), caused by Neisseria meningitidis. It is recommended for certain children, adolescents and adults, including pilgrims travelling for Hajj or Umrah, travellers to high-risk areas, people without a working spleen or with certain immune problems, and laboratory staff.
How It Works
The vaccine contains sugar coatings (polysaccharides) from the outer surface of the four meningococcal groups, each joined to a carrier protein to make the immune response stronger and longer lasting. It contains no live bacteria, so it cannot cause the disease. It teaches the immune system to make antibodies that kill these bacteria if a person is later exposed.
Dosage and Administration
The vaccine is given by a doctor or nurse as an injection into the muscle, usually in the upper arm. Most people over the minimum age need a single dose; infants, people with certain medical conditions, and those at continued risk may need more doses or boosters, according to the product and national schedule set by the doctor. For travel, give it at least 10 days before departure.
Interactions
It can usually be given at the same visit as other routine or travel vaccines, at different injection sites. Medicines that suppress the immune system, such as high-dose Corticosteroids or cancer treatment, may reduce the response. Eculizumab and similar complement-blocking medicines increase meningococcal risk, so vaccination is important, but protection may be incomplete. Tell the health worker about all medicines.
Contraindications
Do not give to anyone who had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or to any component, including diphtheria or tetanus toxoid carrier proteins in some products. Vaccination is postponed during a high fever or acute serious illness.
Side Effects
Common effects include pain, redness or swelling at the injection site, headache, tiredness, muscle aches, mild fever, loss of appetite, irritability or drowsiness in young children, and nausea. These usually settle within one to three days.
Get urgent medical help if there is difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, a widespread rash, fainting, or seizures after vaccination. Staff will watch you for a short time after the injection.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It is not a live vaccine and may be given in pregnancy or while breastfeeding when there is a clear risk of infection, such as travel or an outbreak, after discussion with the doctor.
Precautions and Warnings
Tell the health worker about bleeding disorders or blood-thinning treatment, a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome, or a weak immune system. Fainting can happen after any injection, especially in teenagers, so sit or lie down. The vaccine does not protect against meningococcal group B or other causes of meningitis; seek urgent care for fever with severe headache, stiff neck or a non-fading rash.
Overdose
Overdose is unlikely because the vaccine is given in measured doses by health professionals.
Therapeutic Class
Vaccine (meningococcal conjugate vaccine)
Storage
Store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C, do not freeze, and protect from light. It is usually kept and given at a health facility; follow the directions on the pack.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.