What Is the Meningococcal Vaccine?
The meningococcal vaccine protects against meningococcal disease, a serious bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis. This infection can lead to meningitis, an inflammation of the tissues covering the brain and spinal cord. It can also cause bloodstream infections.
Teens are at a higher risk of getting meningococcal disease, which is easily spread through close contact and can become life-threatening quickly. The CDC recommends that all preteens and adults, as well as children and adults who are at an increased risk, get vaccinated. There are currently three types of meningococcal vaccine that protect against five serogroups of the bacteria causing the disease.
Why Do Teens Need a Meningococcal Vaccine?
People of any age can get meningococcal disease. But teens and young adults, ages 16-23, are at higher risk. The disease can spread quickly in close-living situations such as dorms and schools. Because of this, many schools require proof of meningococcal vaccination.
Which Meningococcal Vaccines Are Available?
There are three types of meningococcal vaccines available in the US:
MenACWY vaccine
This vaccine safeguards against serogroups A, C, W, and Y of the bacteria. The CDC recommends this vaccine for preteens aged 11 to 12. It also recommends a booster shot at 16 years of age.
MenB vaccine
This vaccine targets serogroup B, a fifth strain of the meningococcal bacteria. It's recommended for certain high-risk groups, such as college freshmen living in dorms. The CDC suggests teens get this vaccine between ages 16 and 18.
MenABCWY vaccine
This newer vaccine offers broader protection against serogroups A, B, C, W, and Y. It's a convenient option for those who need both MenACWY and MenB vaccines.
Names for meningococcal vaccines
Brand names for these vaccines are:
Who Needs a Meningococcal Vaccine?
The CDC recommends a meningococcal vaccine for:
- All children aged 11-18 or certain younger high-risk children
- Anyone who has been exposed to meningitis during an outbreak
- Anyone traveling to or living where meningitis is common
- People with certain immune system disorders
Who Should Not Get a Meningococcal Vaccine?
You shouldn't get the meningococcal vaccine if you:
- Have had a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction to a meningococcal vaccine or any of its components
- Are moderately or severely ill (reschedule when you are well)
Meningitis Vaccine Side Effects
Most people won't have any side effects from the meningitis vaccine. If you do have side effects, they are usually mild and go away quickly.
Possible side effects of MenACWY vaccine include:
- Redness or soreness where you got the shot
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
Possible side effects of MenB and MenABCWY vaccines include:
- Redness, soreness, or swelling where you got the shot
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle or joint pain
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or diarrhea
Severe allergic reactions are rare but can happen within minutes or hours of having the vaccination. Signs of an allergic reaction include:
- Trouble breathing
- Hoarseness or wheezing
- Hives
- Paleness
- Weakness
- Fast heartbeat or dizziness
If these signs appear, you should get emergency medical treatment.
Takeaways
Teens are at a higher risk of getting meningococcal disease, a serious bacterial infection that can be life-threatening. The meningococcal vaccine offers protection against this serious illness, and the CDC recommends all teens receive the vaccine. If you have questions, talk to your child's doctor.
Meningococcal Vaccine FAQs
How long does meningococcal immunity last?
The duration of immunity depends on the specific vaccine and your immune response.MenACWY vaccines offer protection for up to five years, while MenB vaccines last around one to two years.
What happens if you don't have meningococcal vaccine?You could get meningococcal disease, which is a very serious, life-threatening condition.
