The presence of bactericidal anti-capsular meningococcal antibodies has been associated with protection from invasive meningococcal disease. Menactra induces the production of bactericidal antibodies specific to the capsular polysaccharides of serogroups A, C, Y and W-135.

Polysaccharide Diphtheria Toxoid Conjugate Vaccine is indicated for active immunization to prevent invasive meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroups A, C, Y and W-135. This vaccine is approved for use in individuals 9 months through 55 years of age. Menactra does not prevent N meningitidis serogroup B disease.

Primary Vaccination:

• Children 9 through 23 months of age: Two doses, three months apart.
• Individuals 2 through 55 years of age: A single dose.

Booster Vaccination:

• A single booster dose may be given to individuals 15 through 55 years of age at continued risk for meningococcal disease, if at least 4 years have elapsed since the prior dose.

Severe allergic reaction (eg, anaphylaxis) after a previous dose of a meningococcal capsular polysaccharide-, diphtheria toxoid- or CRM 197-containing vaccine, or to any component of Menactra

Common (≥10%): solicited adverse events in infants and toddlers 9 and 12 months of age were injection site tenderness, erythema, and swelling; irritability, abnormal crying, drowsiness, appetite loss, vomiting, and fever.

Common (≥10%): solicited adverse events in individuals 2 through 55 years of age who received a single dose were injection site pain, redness, induration, and swelling; anorexia and diarrhea. Other common solicited adverse events were irritability and drowsiness (2-10 years of age), headache, fatigue, malaise, and arthralgia (11-55 years of age).

Persons previously diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) may be at increased risk of GBS following receipt of Menactra. The decision to give Menactra should take into account the potential benefits and risks.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Safety and effectiveness of Polysaccharide Diphtheria Toxoid Conjugate Vaccine have not been established in children younger than 9 months of age, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and adults older than 55 years of age.