Meningococcal vaccine

Linda Knapp had been vaccinated against meningitis with the Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine, but the vaccine didn't protect her from the bacteria she contracted. Her case is unusual; the doctors' explanation is that she didn't have a spleen — the result of a previous illness — to filter out the strep-pneumococcus bacteria that caused her meningitis.

Each year in the United States, approximately 1,400 to 2,800 people develop infections such as meningitis from exposure to meningococcal bacteria. Permanent disabilities such as hearing loss or even death can result.

Two meningococcal vaccines are available:

Menomune: Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine (MPSV4) has been available since the 1970s. This vaccine is generally used for children between the ages of 2 and 10 and adults older than 55 who are at risk for developing meningitis.

Menactra: Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) is a recently licensed (2005) vaccine that is used for people between the ages of 11 and 55. Menactra is currently in short supply. Ask your doctor about availability.

Meningococcal vaccination is recommended for:

• All adolescents who are between ages 11 and 12. Teens who have not yet received this vaccine should get it before entering high school or by age 15, whichever comes first.

• All college freshmen living in dormitories. Menomune can be given at this time if Menactra is not available. College freshmen who do not live in dormitories also may be vaccinated to reduce their risk of infection.

• Anyone age 2 or older who is at an increased risk of becoming infected during an outbreak.

• Anyone age 2 or older who has a damaged spleen or has had the spleen removed.

• Anyone age 2 or older who travels or lives in areas of the world where meningococcal disease is common, such as certain parts of Africa or Saudi Arabia during the hajj.

Even though babies are among those most affected by meningococcal disease, the vaccines currently used are not effective in children younger than 2. A more effective vaccine for young children may be available in the future.

Most people only need one injection of the vaccine. It can be given at the same time as other vaccines, although at a different injection site.

Source: Group Health Cooperative