Menactra

"The Meningococcal Vaccine"

What is meningococcus?
One of the two most common causes of bacterial meningitis in children.

What is the risk?
There are about 2500-3000 cases in the United States every year. This breaks down to the following:

0.23 cases per 100,000 people per year
For college students: 0.7 cases per 100,000 students per year
For college freshman: 1.8 cases per 100,000 freshmen per year
For dormitory residents: 2.2 cases per 100,000 residents per year
For freshman in dorms: 4.6 cases per 100,000 per year

Of those with the disease, about 10-13% die (in teenagers this may be as high as 25%) and a significant number have serious complications, including: brain damage, hearing loss, kidney failure, and limb amputation.

Is the vaccine 100% effective?
NO. However, the vaccine will prevent nearly 70 -80% of meningococcal disease in the US. Although it prevents disease from 4 subtypes (A,C,Y,W-135), it does not prevent disease from the B subtype, which causes ~20-25% of cases.

How long does protection last?
At least 10 years. Future booster doses may be recommended.

Will insurance pay for it?
If they pay for other vaccines, Menactra is usually covered, too.

Who should consider having the vaccine?
We recommend that all children between the ages of 11-18 years receive the vaccine.

Should your child going to college get the vaccine?
Pre-college teenagers should strongly consider receiving the vaccine. Many colleges now require the vaccine for incoming freshman.

For more information about meningitis vaccine click here.