From the Guidelines
Adolescents should receive their first dose of MenACWY vaccine at age 11-12, but if this was missed, vaccination at age 14 is still beneficial, although the recommended age range is 11-18 years. According to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2020 1, the primary vaccination series for MenACWY is recommended at age 11-12 years, with a booster dose at age 16 years if the first dose was administered before the 16th birthday.
Key Points to Consider
- The MenACWY vaccine protects against serogroups A, C, W, and Y meningococcal conjugate vaccines.
- Vaccination is crucial for adolescents due to their increased risk of meningococcal disease, which can be devastating and potentially fatal.
- The vaccines are safe, with minimal side effects, typically limited to soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or headache.
Additional Recommendations
- The MenB vaccine may also be considered for some teens, especially those with certain medical conditions or during outbreaks, as recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2020 1.
- College freshmen living in residence halls should receive at least 1 dose of MenACWY within 5 years before college entry, with the preferred timing of the most recent dose being on or after their 16th birthday.
From the Research
Meningitis Vaccine at 14
- The available evidence does not specifically address the meningitis vaccine at 14 years old, but it discusses the importance of meningococcal conjugate vaccines in preventing meningococcal disease 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Meningococcal conjugate vaccines have been shown to be highly efficacious in young children and adolescents, with minimal side effects 2.
- The quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY) provides broader protection against meningococcal disease and has been licensed in the US for the past 10-15 years 4.
- Studies have found no new significant safety concerns related to MenACWY, and it has been effective in preventing invasive meningococcal disease caused by N. meningitidis serogroups A, C, Y, and W 4.
- The introduction of meningococcal conjugate vaccines into immunization programs has led to a dramatic reduction in the incidence of serogroup C disease, not only in vaccinated but also in unvaccinated individuals (herd immunity) 5.
Vaccine Administration
- The studies do not provide specific guidance on the administration of the meningitis vaccine at 14 years old, but they discuss the importance of vaccination programs in preventing meningococcal disease 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Brazilian Ministry of Health, and other health organizations may provide guidance on vaccination schedules and recommendations 5.