Meningococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine is used for active immunization of children aged 2 years and above, adolescents, and adults against meningococcal infections caused by serogroups A, C, W135, and Y.The vaccine may also be used for: Individuals residing in closed or crowded communities and those who are close contacts of patients infected with meningococcal serogroups A, C, W135, and YTravelers visiting regions where meningococcal disease is epidemic or highly endemic

After reconstitution, each 0.5 mL dose contains:

• Neisseria meningitidis group A polysaccharide: 5 micrograms
• Neisseria meningitidis group C polysaccharide: 5 micrograms
• Neisseria meningitidis group W-135 polysaccharide: 5 micrograms
• Neisseria meningitidis group Y polysaccharide: 5 micrograms
• Conjugated to tetanus toxoid carrier protein: 44 micrograms

Meningococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine is a lyophilized (freeze-dried) preparation containing group-specific polysaccharide antigens of Neisseria meningitidis groups A, C, Y, and W135. After reconstitution, it forms a clear, colorless sterile solution intended for subcutaneous administration.

The recommended immunizing dose is a single 0.5 mL injection administered subcutaneously. For both adults and children aged 2 years and above, a single 0.5 mL dose is sufficient for primary immunization. Protective antibody levels are usually achieved within 7 to 10 days after vaccination.

The vaccine should not be administered to individuals with a known hypersensitivity to any of its active ingredients or excipients.

 Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine is generally well tolerated. Adverse reactions usually occur within 48 hours after vaccination.

• Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Common: loss of appetite
• Psychiatric disorders: Very common: irritability
• Nervous system disorders: Very common: drowsiness, headache; Uncommon: dizziness
• Gastrointestinal disorders: Common: symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Common: muscle pain (myalgia)
• General disorders and administration site conditions: Very common: pain and redness at the injection site, fatigue; Common: swelling at the injection site, fever

Pregnancy: There is limited data from human studies and insufficient animal reproductive studies regarding the use of this vaccine during pregnancy. It should be administered to pregnant women only when clearly necessary and when the potential benefits outweigh any possible risks to the fetus.

Lactation: Data on the use of this vaccine in breastfeeding women are limited. Vaccination during breastfeeding should be considered only when needed, and when the potential benefits outweigh any possible risks to the infant.

As with other vaccines, administration of Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine should be postponed in individuals with acute severe febrile illness. However, minor infections are not a contraindication to vaccination. This vaccine does not provide protection against meningococcal meningitis caused by serogroups other than A, C, W135, and Y.In individuals with impaired immune function, the vaccine may produce a reduced or inadequate immune response. As with all injectable vaccines, appropriate emergency treatment (such as adrenaline) should be readily available in case of anaphylactic reactions following vaccination. A thorough review of medical history (including previous vaccinations and any adverse events) and a proper clinical examination should be conducted prior to vaccination.

Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin

Store the vaccine in a refrigerator at 2–8°C. Do not freeze. Keep it in its original packaging to protect it from light.