MENACTRA (MENINGOCOCCAL (GROUPS A,C,Y AND W-135) VACCINE SOLUTION FOR INTRAMUSCULAR INJECTION. ONE DOSE (0.5ML) CONTAINS 4μg OF EACH MENINGOCOCCAL SACCHARIDE GROUP GROUP (A,C,Y & W-135) CONJUGATED TO APPROXIMATELY 48μg OF DIPHTHERIA TOXOID PROTEIN CARRIER
MENINGOCOCCAL (GROUPS A,C,Y AND W-135)
What it does
Meningococcal vaccines help protect against infections caused by the meningococcal bacteria, which can lead to serious illnesses like meningitis.
Commonly used for: meningitis, meningococcal disease
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Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:37:43 · updated 2026-09-29 04:00:05
About this medicine
Meningococcal vaccines help protect against infections caused by the meningococcal bacteria, which can lead to serious illnesses like meningitis.
What it treats
- meningitis
- meningococcal disease
How it works
The vaccine stimulates the immune system to recognize and fight the meningococcal bacteria.
Who it's for
It's recommended for infants, children, and certain adults at risk of meningococcal infections.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: meningococcal
Meningococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, which can lead to serious conditions such as meningitis and septicemia. Meningococcal vaccines are used to prevent infections caused by this pathogen. These vaccines stimulate the immune response to produce antibodies against the bacteria, thus reducing the incidence of disease.
Indications
- Prevention of meningococcal meningitis
- Prevention of meningococcal septicemia
- Vaccination in outbreak settings
- Vaccination for travelers to endemic areas
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific vaccine guidelines for paediatric dosing.
Adults: Refer to specific vaccine guidelines for adult dosing.
Mechanism of action
Meningococcal vaccines work by introducing components of the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria, such as polysaccharide capsules or proteins, into the body. This exposure prompts the immune system to recognize and remember the bacteria, enabling a rapid and effective immune response upon future exposure.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effect of meningococcal vaccines is the induction of immunological memory, resulting in the production of specific antibodies against the serogroups of Neisseria meningitidis included in the vaccine. The immune response can considerably reduce the risk of developing invasive meningococcal disease.
Pharmacokinetics
Meningococcal vaccines are administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously, where they are absorbed into the systemic circulation. The onset of immunity typically occurs within 2-3 weeks after vaccination, and the duration of protection varies depending on the specific vaccine used. Most vaccines require booster doses to maintain immunity over time.
Contra-indications
- Severe allergic reaction to any component of the vaccine
- History of severe allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) after a previous dose
Adverse effects
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Rash
- Local reactions at the injection site (pain, redness, swelling)
Interactions
- Immunosuppressive therapies may reduce vaccine efficacy
- Concurrent administration with other vaccines is generally acceptable, but consult specific guidelines
Precautions
- Consider in patients with a history of Guillain-Barré syndrome
- Use with caution in individuals with moderate or severe acute illness
- Evaluate the risk of meningococcal disease in populations at increased risk
Pregnancy
The vaccine is recommended during pregnancy if there is a risk of exposure to meningococcal disease.
Breast-feeding
The vaccine is considered safe during breastfeeding.
Storage
Store in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Formulations
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY)
- Meningococcal B vaccine (MenB)
- Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.