MENACTRA (MENINGOCOCCAL VACCINE)



Meningitis is an infection of the spinal fluid, usually caused by a virus or one of several types of bacteria. Viral meningitis is less severe and resolves without specific treatment. There are three types of bacterial meningitis, for which we have vaccines and antibiotic treatment. Younger children receive vaccines for Hemophilus influenzae type b (HIB) and pneumococcal (Prevnar) meningitis. Meningococcal meningitis is the third type of bacterial meningitis, which is often fatal because of its rapid progression and its high level of contagiousness. Symptoms of meningitis are high fever, headache, stiff neck and also may include nausea, vomiting, extreme light sensitivity, confusion and sleepiness. A rash may also occur with meningococcal meningitis.

Although meningococcal meningitis may occur at any age, certain lifestyle factors may increase the risk of contracting and spreading the disease. These are direct contact with an infected individual, especially through saliva, crowded living conditions and active or passive smoking. Initially, the vaccine that was available to protect against this disease (Menomune) was given primarily to those adolescents/young adults going off to college, because of the above risk factors. That vaccine had been shown to last for approximately 3-4 years. The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends the newer meningococcal vaccine (Menactra).

 The recommended ages for the vaccine are:

•  The vaccine is also approved for 2-10 year olds with underlying medical conditions that would put them at higher risk.

In New Jersey there is a  state regulation requiring children entering 6th grade to have the meningitis vaccine.

We will be vaccinating those children in the above groups at their physicals. If your child falls into any of these groups and has already had his/her physical this year and you wish them to have the vaccine, or they fall into the above age category where the vaccine is required,  please call our office for an appointment.



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