Could my child be at increased risk?

A vaccine could protect this teenage boy from Meningococcal Meningtis

Kids will be kids. But some things they do can increase their risks of getting meningococcal disease.3,5 If your kids engage in any of the following activities, they could be at risk:

  • Live in a dormitory or close quarters
  • Get stuck in crowded situations for long periods
  • Share water bottles, or other drinking containers
  • Share food or eating utensils
  • Kiss other adolescents
  • Smoke or inhale secondhand smoke
  • Often stay out late or miss out on sleep

All of those activities can increase a child's risk of getting meningococcal disease.3,5 A vaccination with Menactra vaccine is something you can do immediately to help protect your children from meningococcal disease, which includes meningococcal meningitis.1,2

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How do I get the vaccine?

Indication

Menactra vaccine is given to people 9 months through 55 years of age to help prevent meningococcal disease (including meningitis) caused by certain strains of meningococcal bacteria. Menactra vaccine is not indicated for the prevention of meningitis caused by meningococcal strains not contained in the vaccine.

Safety Information

Side effects to Menactra vaccine include injection site pain, redness, swelling, headache and tiredness. In infants, irritability, crying, drowsiness, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. Other side effects may occur. Vaccination should be avoided by persons with known hypersensitivity (severe allergic reaction) to any ingredient of the vaccine or by any persons previously diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome (severe muscle weakness). There is a potential for an increased chance of getting Guillain-Barré syndrome following vaccination. Vaccination with Menactra vaccine may not protect all individuals.

For more information about Menactra vaccine, talk to your health-care professional.