Meningococcal (MenACWY)

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  • WHAT IT PROTECTS AGAINST

    Meningitis (infection around the brain and spinal cord)

  • WHO IT’S FOR

    Adolescents

  • WHEN IT’S ROUTINELY GIVEN

    • 11-12 years
    • 16 years

  • BENEFITS

    • Protects against life-threatening illnesses from four strains (A, C, W, Y) of Meningococcal disease:
      • Meningitis (infection around the brain)
      • Sepsis (blood poisoning)
    • Helps stop the virus from spreading to others – especially those living in close spaces like college dorms

  • POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

    • Soreness around injection site
    • Mild fever
    • Tiredness
    • Headache
    • Muscle pain

    Side effects from vaccines are usually mild and temporary. It’s always good to keep in mind that vaccine side effects are minor compared to the more severe health issues that can be caused if you get sick with the disease.

  • VACCINE PRODUCTS (available in the United States)

    • Menveo – 2 dose series
    • MenQuadfi – 2 dose series

    Combination vaccines

    • Penmenvy (MenACWY-CRM/MenB-4C) – 2 dose series
    • Penbraya (MenACWY-TT/Menb-FHbp) – 2 dose series

  • COMMON QUESTIONS

    Why is it important for adolescents to receive this vaccine?

    Meningococcal disease risk rises in the teen years when adolescents become more socially active and, as young adults, may live in close spaces like college dorm. Getting vaccinated as a teen provides protection at the time when they need it most.