What Is a Menactra Vaccine?

Menactra is a vaccine to protect against meningococcal disease---a serious and potentially fatal condition that affects between 1,000 and 2,600 patients in the United States every year. Approximately one in 10 people diagnosed with meningococcal disease die and as many as one in five survivors are left with serious medical problems. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends that children between 11 and 18 years old receive a meningococcal vaccine.

Meningococcal Disease: The Facts

• Meningococcal disease is a bacterial illness and can present as either septicemia or meningitis---both of which are fast acting (can kill a child in a 24-hour time period) and quite serious. Septicemia is a condition in which the disease quickly spreads through the bloodstream and can cause very low blood pressure along with organ failure. Meningitis is a condition in which the membranes surrounding the brain or spinal cord (meninges) become inflamed and can potentially result in brain damage.

Symptoms of Meningococcal Disease

• Quick treatment is essential since meningococcal disease progresses very quickly. If you (or a loved one) have or suspect that you have the disease, it's crucial to get to your doctor right away. In its early stages, symptoms may mimic flu symptoms like fever, nausea or headache. Additional symptoms include severe headache; pain and stiffness in the neck; high fever; light sensitivity; nausea/vomiting; numbness in hands and feet; and confusion and/or seizures.

Why Get Vaccinated?

• Vaccinating your child can greatly reduce the risk of contracting meningococcal disease and protects against the most widespread types of meningitis bacteria. According to the CDC, adolescents and young adults are particularly at risk for developing the disease due to specific activities like living closely together (like in dorm rooms), sharing utensils or drinking glasses, kissing, and lifestyle choices which can weaken the immune system. Since it can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages, prevention is the best form of defense.

Considerations

• Anyone younger than two or older than 55 should not be given the vaccine. Also, it is important to tell your doctor if you've ever had an allergic reaction to a meningococcal vaccine or diphtheria. Additionally, you should tell your doctor if you have a latex rubber allergy or a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome. Any allergies or conditions should be discussed with your doctor prior to receiving Menactra, especially if you have any of the following conditions: hemophilia; HIV, AIDS, cancer or any other disease that weakens the immune system; if you're on steroids or receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation; or if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.

Side Effects of Menactra

• If you experience any side effects after receiving the vaccine, it's important to keep a record in case you need to receive another meningococcal vaccine in the future. If you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, tongue, lips or throat or hives, it is important to seek immediate medical help. Call your doctor immediately if you experience a high fever, unusual bleeding or severe weakness in the arms and legs (this can occur up to 4 weeks after getting vaccinated). Other side effects are less serious and include: chills, low-grade fever; swelling, redness or pain at the injection site; headache; joint pain; tiredness; diarrhea; or a mild rash.

Warnings

• Other medications may interact with Menactra. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other recent vaccines, medications or treatments that you've received. Also be sure to let your healthcare provider know about any regular over-the-counter medication that you take and/or vitamins and supplements.