Skip to main content

We have Rapid & Antibody COVID tests available

Text Size: +Reset-

Home » What’s New » Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine Updates

Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccine Updates

Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV) is recommended for normal-risk children at 11–12 years of age, although children with certain medical conditions (such as sickle cell disease or apslenia) may benefit from immunization as early as 2 years of age. HIV-infected patients who are vaccinated should receive two doses of the vaccine.

Being a new military recruit, being a first-year college student living in a dormitory, and visiting endemic areas (e.g., Mecca) are accepted indications for meningococcal vaccination. MCV is preferred for adults younger than 55, although the meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine (MPSV) can be used as an alternative. However, persons previously vaccinated with MPSV who continue to reside in endemic areas may benefit from revaccination after 3–5 years.

Revaccination with MCV4 every 5 years is recommended for adults previously vaccinated with MCV4 or MPSV4 who remain at increased risk for infection, including adults with anatomic or functional asplenia or persistent complement component deficiencies.