Meningococcal Vaccination

"There are two types of meningococcal vaccines licensed in the United States:

• Meningococcal conjugate vaccines (MenACWY)
• Serogroup B meningococcal vaccines (MenB)

These vaccines help prevent the most common causes of meningococcal disease in the United States.

CDC Recommends Meningococcal Vaccines for Preteens, Teens, and Certain Other People

All 11 to 12 year olds should get a single dose of a MenACWY vaccine. CDC recommends a booster dose at age 16. The booster dose gives teens continued protection during the ages when they are at highest risk. If your teenager missed getting a dose, ask their clinician about getting it now.

Teens and young adults (16 through 23 year olds) may also get a MenB vaccine, preferably at 16 through 18 years old. People need multiple doses of a MenB vaccine for best protection. People must get the same brand for all doses. Talk with your teen’s clinician if you are interested in MenB vaccination.

Younger children and adults usually do not need meningococcal vaccines. However, CDC recommends one or both types of meningococcal vaccines for people with certain medical conditions, travel plans, or jobs. In addition, CDC recommends vaccination for people who are at increased risk because of a meningococcal disease outbreak. Learn more or talk to your or your child’s clinician about what is best for your specific situation..."
Meningococcal vaccination