Ingredients In Menb Vaccines
Meningitis B vaccines, like Bexero and Trumenba, are made up of three proteins found on the surface of one subtype of the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. The specific proteins differ, depending on whether you receive Bexsero or Trumenba.
These vaccine contains very small amounts of other ingredients, like aluminum hydroxide, sucrose , histidine , and sodium chloride .
Vaccines For Meningococcal Disease
There are a number of vaccines available which protect against different types of meningococcal disease. There is no one vaccine that can protect against all of the types of meningococcal disease. Different vaccines are required to protect against the most common types of meningococcal disease one to protect against meningococcal group A,C,W & Y disease, and another vaccine to protect against meningococcal group B disease. There is also a separate vaccine available to protect against meningococcal group C disease.
What Is Meningococcal Vaccine India
Only the quadrivalent and bivalent meningococcal Ps vaccines are available in India. The quadrivalent MPV is preferred for Haj pilgrims, international travelers and students in that it provides protection against emerging W-135 and Y disease in these areas. A single-dose 0.5mL injection is recommended.
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Available Vaccines And Vaccination Campaigns
Five serogroupsgroups of bacteria that contain a common antigen that can generate an immune responseare collectively responsible for nearly all invasive meningococcal disease: groups A, B, C, Y, and W-135. Four of these are covered by quadrivalent meningococcal vaccines used in the United States.
There are two main types of meningococcal vaccines. A meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine has been available since the 1970s. However, like the polysaccharide vaccine against pneumococcal disease, it is most effective in adults and does not consistently generate immunity in young children.
The first conjugate meningococcal vaccine in the United States, MCV4 , was licensed in 2005, with a second, MenACWY-CRM , licensed in 2010. These are the preferred vaccines for individuals between two years and 55 years of age Menactra is approved for ages two to 55, and Menveo for ages 11 to 55.
Vaccines for group B meningococcal disease were licensed in the United States in 2014 and 2015. MenB-FHbp is a two-dose vaccine.
Is It Too Late To Get Vaccinated

The answer to this question isnt so clear-cut. If you have an unvaccinated teen headed off to college, there is still time for them to get their vaccines. Your child may also need another shot if they had the vaccine as a preteen. Meningitis vaccines are thought to only last for about five years, according to the Center for Young Womens Health.
Adults can also get the meningitis vaccine if their doctors recommend it. Certain situations can warrant the use of meningitis vaccinations. Examples include spleen removal, going to military camp, or traveling overseas.
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Meningococcal C Conjugate Vaccine
NeisVac-C is a meningococcal conjugate vaccine to protect against meningococcal group C only.
This can be used to protect babies under the age of 9 months. Babies who are less than 9 months of age need three doses to be protected. Children over 9 months of age and adults should be given the ACWY vaccine, Menactra.
The NeisVac-C vaccine is funded for children aged under 9 months with a medical condition that increases their risk of invasive meningococcal disease AND is listed on the Pharmaceutical Schedule. Refer to the Immunisation Handbookfor more details.
NeisVac-C is also available as a purchased vaccine through your family doctor. The cost is approximately $98 per dose.
For more advice on vaccines and their availability, talk to your family doctor, call the free Immunisation Advisory Centre helpline 0800 IMMUNE , or see the Immunisation Handbook.
Muslims Undergoing The Hajj Or Umrah Pilgrimage
Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia are especially at risk of contracting meningococcal infection. There have been outbreaks in recent years. A proof of immunisation is needed to obtain a visa to go to Saudi Arabia for this purpose.
Note: some pilgrims may have been immunised in the past with an older vaccine which only protected against groups A and C. If you travel to Saudi Arabia again you should have an injection of the newer MenACWY vaccine. Proof of immunisation with MenACWY vaccine given within the preceding three years is now needed to get a new visa to visit Saudi Arabia.
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People Without A Spleen Or Whose Spleen Does Not Work Properly
If you do not have a spleen, or your spleen does not work properly, or you have a weakened immune system then it is likely to be recommended to you that you receive the MenB and the MenACWY vaccines. The timing of your vaccines will depend on your age. Your doctor will be able to advise you in more detail regarding this.
Administration With Other Vaccines
Vaccine providers may administer MenACWY and MenB vaccines during the same visit, but at a different injection site, if feasible. Providers can also administer meningococcal and other vaccines during the same visit, but at a different injection site, if feasible. Administer each vaccine with a separate syringe.
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Meningococcal Group C Conjugate Vaccine
A Cochrane Review assessed the safety of MenC against group C disease. MenC vaccines were shown to have an excellent safety profile in infants. The events more frequently reported in infants were fever , irritability , crying more than expected , redness at the site of vaccination , tenderness at the site of vaccination and swelling at the site of vaccination . Anaphylaxis was reported at a rate of one per 500,000 doses distributed.
Persons With Inadequate Immunization Records
Children and adults lacking adequate documentation of immunization should be considered unimmunized and started on an immunization schedule appropriate for their age and risk factors. Conjugate meningococcal vaccine, as appropriate for age, may be given regardless of possible previous receipt of the vaccine, as adverse events associated with repeated immunization have not been demonstrated. Refer to Immunization of persons with inadequate immunization records in Part 3 for additional general information.
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Variations From The Vaccine Data Sheets
The MenACWY-D data sheet states that the vaccine is indicated for use in individuals aged 9 months to 55 years. The Ministry of Health recommends that this vaccine can be used in adults aged over 55 years.
The data sheet states that MenACWY-D should be given as a single dose for individuals aged 2 years and older. The Ministry of Health recommends that two doses are given to individuals at high risk of meningococcal disease , with booster doses every five years. If the first MenACWY-D dose was given before age 7 years, give a booster after three years then five-yearly.
A history of GBS is listed as a precaution in the MenACWY-D data sheet. However, there is no evidence of an association between meningococcal conjugate vaccines and GBS . The Ministry of Health advises that, if indicated, MenACWY-D may be administered to individuals with a history of GBS.
The MenC data sheet states that the first dose of vaccine is not be given earlier than age 8 weeks. However, the Ministry of Health recommends that MenC may be given from age 6 weeks to infants at high risk of meningococcal disease .
The 4CMenB data sheet states that the vaccine is indicated from age 2 months or older. However, the Ministry of Health recommends that 4CMenB can be given from age 6 weeks to infants at high risk of meningococcal disease .
Is There Anyone Who Shouldnt Receive A Meningococcal Vaccine

If youre not in the recommended age range or have the specific risk factors, you likely dont need a meningococcal vaccine. But its always good to check with your healthcare provider if youre unsure.
There are a few other situations where you shouldnt get a meningococcal vaccine. This is the case if youve had a severe allergic reaction to a meningococcal vaccine in the past. Similarly, you shouldnt get it if you have a severe allergy to any of the vaccines ingredients.
Let your healthcare provider know if youre pregnant, nursing, or if youre sick before getting a meningococcal vaccine. Theyll determine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
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Getting Your Meningococcal Vaccine
If you think you may need a meningococcal vaccine, talk to your healthcare provider. They will help you figure out if the meningococcal vaccine is right for you.
Your primary care providers office usually carries meningococcal vaccines and many retail pharmacies may carry them as well. Its a good idea to call ahead to make sure its in stock.
Its also a good idea to check your insurance coverage to see if the vaccine will be covered better at a providers office or at a pharmacy. Other places to get meningococcal vaccines can include community health clinics and public health departments.
How Old Do You Have To Be Get The Measles Vaccine
The CDC recommends the vaccine be delivered in two doses. Kids should get their first shot between 12 and 15 months old, and their second between four and six years old.
Unvaccinated adults born after 1957 should get at least one dose. People born prior to 1957 were likely exposed to the measles and are therefore considered immune.
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Before Taking This Medicine
You may not be able to receive Menactra if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to a meningococcal, diphtheria, or tetanus vaccine.
Menactra may need to be postponed or not given at all if you have:
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a severe illness with a fever or any type of infection
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a weak immune system caused by disease or by using certain medicine
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a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome or
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a history of premature birth.
You can still receive a vaccine if you’ve a minor cold.
Your doctor should determine whether you need Menactra during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Vaccines That May Prevent Viral Meningitis
Currently, theres no vaccine available to protect against viral forms of meningitis. But other routine vaccines are thought to offer some protection because they may prevent diseases that could lead to viral meningitis.
These include vaccines for:
CDC , there arent any known serious reactions to these core meningitis vaccines.
Some people may feel lightheaded after receiving a vaccine. This is believed to be a stress response to the vaccination process, not the shot itself.
If you have a history of feeling faint or passing out from shots, or getting bloodwork done, let your healthcare professional know ahead of time. They may take steps to decrease the risk of this effect, like having a loved one present during the appointment and having you lie down for several minutes after getting your shot.
Meningitis shots are recommended for pre-teens and teens. But adults of all ages may also benefit from vaccination if they didnt get these shots earlier in life.
Hib vaccines are given to newborns in several doses.
The first MenACWY shot is typically given at . A second vaccine may be administered around 16 years of age. You may also require proof of this type of vaccination before entering college.
The CDC recommends talking with your doctor about getting a MenB shot between ages 16 and 18 , especially if you plan on going to college or joining the military. Youll also need boosters of the same brand to complete your vaccination.
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Who Should Get Meningococcal Vaccines
CDC recommends meningococcal vaccination for all preteens and teens. In certain situations, CDC also recommends other children and adults get meningococcal vaccines. Below is more information about which meningococcal vaccines, including booster shots, CDC recommends for people by age.
Talk to your or your childs doctor about what is best for your specific situation.
Who Should Get The Meningococcal Vaccines
All children ages 11 through 12 years should receive meningococcal vaccine followed by a booster dose at age 16 years. Vaccination is also recommended for all adolescents ages 13 through 18 years who did not receive a dose at age 11-12 years.
Individuals ages 2 months and older who have certain conditions that weaken their immune system should receive meningococcal vaccine, including teens who are HIV positive. These persons should also receive booster shots every three to five years depending on their age. Talk to your health care provider if your preteen or teen has a condition that makes it harder for their body to fight off infection.
The MenB vaccine may also be given at age 16 years along with the MenACWY booster dose. MenB vaccine is also recommended for children age 10 years and older with certain high-risk conditions. The number of doses needed depends on the product used and if your child has a high-risk condition. Talk to your health care provider about this additional vaccine.
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How Long Does The Meningitis Vaccine Last
The meningitis vaccine lasts five years for most people.
You only need to get your meningitis vaccine a day before you travel as you will only require one dose to be fully protected.
Further meningitis vaccine boosters are available if you need to continue your protection. The booster meningitis jab provides protection for an additional five years.
What Are The Possible Side Effects Of The Meningococcal Vaccines

In some cases, your child may have some symptoms which are usually mild and don’t last long. Your child’s arm may be a bit red, sore or swollen where the injection was given. Some people may have a mild fever, headache, fatigue, or feel moody.
Talk to your health care provider about how to help relieve any symptoms after vaccination.
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What If I Don’t Know Whether I’ve Been Vaccinated
People who are unsure when, or if, they were vaccinated can safely opt for a shot, according to William Schaffner, a professor at Vanderbilt University and an infectious disease and vaccine expert.
“There’s no downside to getting a dose of measles vaccine,” he told NPR. “If you’re protected, it won’t help much, but it won’t harm you. And if you happen to be susceptible, it will give you over 90 percent protection.”
Firstly What Exactly Is Meningococcal Disease
- Meningococcal disease is an acute bacterial infection that can cause death within hours if not recognised and treated in time.
- The meningococcal bacteria are spread through droplets from the nose or throat through sneezing or coughing.
- In Australia there are 5 main strains of the disease, all of which now have vaccinations available from your doctor when supplies allow. As of July 1, the ACWY vaccine replaced the C vaccine. It is free on the National Immunisation Program but does NOT protect against all strains of the disease.
- Although the majority of victims will recover fully, 10 percent of those infected will die, and around 20 percent will have permanent disabilities – ranging from learning difficulties, sight and hearing problems, to liver and kidney failure, loss of fingers, toes and limbs and scarring caused by skin grafts.
- One of the reasons meningococcal disease is hard to identify is that it can appear in several different forms, depending on which part of the body the bacteria invade: meningitis or septicaemia , or a combination of both.
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What Is The Meningococcus
The meningococcus is a germ that can cause meningitis and blood infection . It can also cause other infections – for example, pneumonia, eye infection , joint infection and inflammation of the heart . It most commonly causes infections in babies under the age of 1 year. It can also cause infections in those aged 1-5 years and those aged 15-19 years.
Some of these infections are very serious and can be fatal if not treated quickly. There are different groups of meningococcal bacteria:
- Groups B, C and, more recently, W are the common strains in the UK. Most cases of bacterial meningitis in the UK are caused by group B. Most of the rest are caused by group C . Infection caused by group W has increased in the UK in recent years.
- Group A is rare in the UK but more common in certain parts of the world – in particular, sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Saudi Arabia.
- Groups Y, 29E and Z are rare in the UK but group W has been the cause of several recent outbreaks in different parts of the world, including the UK.
Infection with the meningococcus can affect anyone but those most at risk are children aged under 5 years , teenagers and young adults under the age of 25.
How Do You Prevent Invasive Meningococcal Disease
Immunization is the best way to protect yourself, your children and your community.
Avoid sharing personal items that touch your mouth such as water bottles, food, lipstick, toothbrushes and eating utensils. Wash your hands well and often. Avoid being close to people who have symptoms of the disease.
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Problems That Could Happen After Getting Any Injected Vaccine
- People sometimes faint after medical procedures, including vaccination. Sitting or lying down for about 15 minutes can help prevent fainting, and injuries caused by a fall. Tell the provider if you or your child feel dizzy, have vision changes, or have ringing in the ears.
- As with any medicine, there is a very remote chance of a vaccine causing a severe allergic reaction, other serious injury, or death.
Is Meningococcal Vaccine The Same As Meningitis Vaccine
The 2 types of meningococcal/meningitis vaccines offer protection against the ACWY and B strains of Neisseria bacteria that can cause meningitis . A pneumococcal vaccine is routinely administered to infants and young children which helps to prevent pneumococcal meningitis, a rare complication of invasive pneumococcal disease.
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