What is it?
Meningococcal is a bacterial disease that can cause pneumonia, bloodstream infection, and meningitis (swelling of the covering of the brain and spinal cord). Severe disease can cause brain damage, loss of hearing or limbs, and death. It is spread by direct contact with infected persons by coughing, kissing, or sharing anything by mouth, such as water bottles, eating utensils, or toothbrushes.
What can I do?
The meningococcal conjugate vaccine is recommended for all 11-18 year olds. Kids should get this vaccine at 11-12 years of age and a booster dose at age 16.
Is it safe?
Yes, the meningococcal vaccines (MCV and MPSV) are safe. Severe allergic reactions are rare. It is unknown whether MCV increases the risk of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
|
Age > Vaccine |
2 months |
4 months |
6 months |
9 months |
12 months |
15 months |
18 months |
19-23 months |
2-3 years |
4-6 years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Meningococcal | MCV4§ | |||||||||
| § - Your child may need this vaccine if he or she has high-risk conditions. Ask your doctor or nurse for more information. |