quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine

The quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine is an active immunization that protects against infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroups A, C, W, and Y. It works by inducing antibody production targeting capsular polysaccharides conjugated to protein carriers (such as diphtheria or tetanus toxoid), leading to immune memory and enhanced long-term protection. It is indicated for routine vaccination of adolescents and others at increased risk, such as individuals with asplenia, complement deficiencies, laboratory exposure risk, military recruits, travelers to endemic regions, and people exposed during outbreaks[1][2][4]. The vaccine does not protect against serogroup B. Protection is generally achieved via intramuscular injection. The duration of immunity after vaccination is typically a few years; booster doses are recommended for continued risk groups[2][3]. The vaccine is generally well tolerated, with minor local side effects and very rare serious reactions.

Brand names

MenactraMenveoMenQuadfiMencevaxNmVac4-A/C/Y/W-135

Other names

quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccinequadrivalent meningococcal polysaccharide-protein conjugate vaccinemeningococcal conjugate vaccine (ACWY)meningococcal vaccine serogroups A, C, W, Y