Meningococcal Quad Conjugate Vaccine

About this service

➤ What is meningococcal infection? Bacteria cause meningococcal infections. Meningococcal infection due to types A, C, Y, and W is rare in B.C. Although rare, it can cause serious and life-threatening infections including meningitis, an infection of the lining that covers the brain, and septicemia, an infection of the blood. For every 100 people who get sick, up to 15 will die, even if they receive treatment. Permanent complications of infection include brain damage, deafness, and loss of limbs. Meningococcal infection is spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, close face-to-face contact, and saliva. It can also occur through activities such as kissing or sharing food, drinks, cigarettes, lipsticks, water bottles, sports mouthguards, or musical instrument mouthpieces. ➤ Who should get the meningococcal quadrivalent conjugate vaccine? The vaccine is provided free to children in grade 9. The vaccine is also provided free to children and adults at high risk of meningococcal disease, including those who have: - No spleen, or a spleen that is not working properly - Immune system disorders including complement, properdin, factor D, or primary antibody deficiencies - An islet cell or solid organ transplant, or those who are waiting for one - Had a stem cell transplant - Been in close contact with a person with meningococcal A, Y, or W disease, or who is determined by public health to be at risk of infection with these during an outbreak in B.C. The vaccine is recommended, but not provided free, for the following people: - Laboratory workers are routinely exposed to meningococcal bacteria - Military personnel - Those living or traveling in a high-risk area for meningococcal disease - For information on high-risk travel areas contact a travel clinic. The vaccine is usually given as 1 dose. Some people may need additional doses of the vaccine. Speak with your healthcare provider to find out if you need more doses and when you should get them. People who are not eligible for the free vaccine but want to be protected against meningococcal A, C, Y, and W strains of the disease can purchase the vaccine at Columbia Street Pharmacy.