MENINGOCOCCAL VACCINES

About Meningococcal disease

Meningococcal infections can cause meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord) and septicemia (infections of the blood). It is a severe illness, which has a fast progression very rapidly. In India, the disease usually involves young children. Unless diagnosed and treated on time, the illness can lead to death, and disability in some survivors.

Meningococcal infections have a low incidence in India, except for periodic outbreaks, described in North India.

Types of Meningococcal vaccines available in India

Four types of meningococcal bacteria are known A,C,YW-135,of which the Type A is most common in India. 

There are 2 kinds of vaccine available in India..
a) Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine(MCV4):containsA,C,Y,W-135 

b) Meningococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine(MPSV4) 

Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine (MCV4) is preferred as it has more long lasting effect

Vaccine Schedule

The vaccine can be used in ages 9 month onwards (Menactra) or 2 yrs plus (Menveo). It schedule is 2 doses with minimum 3 months gap.

IAP Recommendations for Meningococcal vaccine in India

• In India, the vaccine is recommended only for children with certain medical conditions that affect the immune system, making it weak in tackling certain infections e.g. children with HIV, absent or non-functioning spleen, deficiency of certain proteins required for proper functioning of the immune system and children on drugs that suppress the immune system. 
• People working in laboratories and exposed to samples containing meningococci. 
• Children and adults traveling to certain parts of Africa also need to take this vaccine.
• Young adults traveling to USA for further studies and pilgrims undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage, may also need this vaccine.