Overview of Meningococcal Infection and Vaccination Needs
Meningococcus has more than 10 serotypes, and there is no universal vaccine for it. The incidence of bacterial meningitis is increasing, affecting not only children but also young adults in crowded groups, such as educational institutions, dormitories, and the army. There are only three vaccines in the world that protect against meningococci.
Introduction to Menactra and Its Target Age Groups
The most famous of them is the American Menactra. The vaccine is designed for vaccination of children, starting from the age of 9 months, and adults up to 55 years. Children aged 9 months to 2 years are vaccinated twice, with a break of at least 3 months. Menactra forms long-term immunity to bacterial meningitis.
Revaccination Guidelines and International Practices
The official website of the drug states that revaccination is possible at least 4 years after the initial vaccination, at the age of over 15 years, and with a continuing risk of getting sick (History of Vaccines, 2022). However, since the birthplace of vaccination, the United States, belongs to the countries of mass immunization of the population against this disease, revaccination has not been done there.
Compatibility and Contraindications of Menactra
Menactra can be combined with vaccination against pneumococcal infection, vaccination against chickenpox, vaccination against measles, rubella, and mumps, and vaccination against hepatitis A. Contraindications to vaccination with Menactra are standard and common for most modern vaccines. This includes acute diseases or exacerbations of chronic diseases. Therefore, it is important to pass general urine and blood tests before vaccination to exclude hidden inflammatory processes and consult a doctor.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations of Menactra
The specifics of Menactra include possible fainting during vaccination, so you should not leave the clinic immediately after vaccination. Adverse reactions to vaccination usually occur within 4 days. Most often, they are swelling and soreness at the injection site. These side effects are not serious, and vaccination with Menactra can be a good method of preventing the spread of bacterial meningitis.
Reference
History of Vaccines (2022). Bacterial meningitis (meningococcal disease). Web.