meningococcal polysaccharide ACWY vaccine

The **meningococcal polysaccharide ACWY vaccine** is a pharmaceutical vaccine containing purified polysaccharides from Neisseria meningitidis serogroups A, C, W-135, and Y. It is used primarily for the prevention of invasive meningococcal disease caused by these serogroups. The mechanism of action relies on the induction of an immune response against the capsular polysaccharides of the bacteria, resulting in production of protective antibodies. This vaccine is typically indicated for individuals at increased risk of meningococcal disease, such as military recruits, travelers to endemic areas, or persons exposed due to work (e.g., microbiologists)[1][7]. The vaccine is not a conjugate and does not induce T-cell dependent immunity, unlike conjugated MenACWY vaccines. It is administered via intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, with dosing schedule based on age, risk, and exposure. Polysaccharide vaccines like Menomune are now largely replaced by conjugate ACWY vaccines for routine use because of improved immunogenicity and duration of protection.

Brand names

Menomune

Other names

meningococcal ACWY polysaccharide vaccineMenomunemeningococcal polysaccharide vaccine groups A, C, W-135, and Y