The cold, flu, and meningococcal disease seasons are upon us. As providers are vaccinating for influenza this fall and winter it is also important to check immunization status and vaccinate against meningococcal disease in adolescents. This is especially important since early symptoms of meningococcal disease may be difficult to distinguish from influenza.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends routine meningococcal vaccination with a single dose of Menactra (Meningococcal [Groups A, C, Y, and W-135] Polysaccharide Diphtheria Toxoid Conjugate Vaccine) for all adolescents 11-18 years of age at the earliest opportunity and for all college freshmen living in dormitories. The ACIP has stated that the pre-adolescent visit at 11-12 years of age is the best time to vaccinate, but screening for immunization status and vaccination should occur year-round.
It is important to establish good, year-round immunization practices for adolescent vaccination including Menactra vaccine for all adolescent patients (private and Vaccines for Children [VFC]). Providers should be encouraged to implement ACIP recommendations for Menactra vaccine by:
- Talking to parents during every adolescent office visit and taking advantage of every opportunity to vaccinate
- Giving all recommended vaccines at a single visit2
- Immunizing during sick visits
- Implementing standing orders
- Utilizing electronic medical records (EMR) where possible to assist in immunization tracking
Menactra vaccine is indicated for immunization against invasive meningococcal disease caused by N meningitidis serogroups A, C, Y, and W-135 in persons 2 through 55 years of age. Menactra vaccine will not stimulate protection against infection caused by N meningitidis other than serogroups A, C, Y, and W-135.
Safety Information
There are risks associated with all vaccines. The most common local and systemic adverse reactions to Menactra vaccine include injection site pain, redness, and induration; headache, fatigue, and malaise. Other adverse reactions may occur. Menactra vaccine is contraindicated in persons with known hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine or to latex, which is used in the vial stopper. Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) has been reported in temporal relationship following administration of Menactra vaccine. Persons previously diagnosed with GBS should not receive Menactra vaccine. As with any vaccine, vaccination with Menactra vaccine may not protect 100% of individuals.
Before administering Menactra vaccine, please see accompanying full prescribing information.
