Vaccines
Meningococcal Vaccines
Guidance for Preteens and Teens.
All preteens and teens should get vaccines to protect against meningococcal disease. Talk with your child’s doctor or nurse about vaccination to help protect your child’s health.
Why does my child need this vaccine?
Meningococcal vaccines help protect against the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease. While rare in the US, teens and young adults are at increased risk.
The two most common types of illnesses include infections of the:
- Lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
- Bloodstream
Even with treatment, about 10 to 15 out of 100 people with meningococcal disease will die from it. Vaccination is the best defense.
When should my child be vaccinated?
All preteens and teens should get 2 doses of the meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine.
Dose 1 (Primary)
Ages 11-12
Dose 2 (Booster)
Age 16
Note: Teens and young adults (16 through 23 years old) may also get a serogroup B meningococcal (MenB) vaccine. The preferred age is 16 through 18 years old.
Safety & Payment Help
Safety: Researchers have studied these vaccines carefully and they are shown to be very safe. Mild side effects may include redness or soreness at the injection site.
Cost: Most health insurance plans cover routine vaccinations. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program also provides vaccines for children 18 years and younger who are uninsured or Medicaid-eligible.