Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of Sanofi, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved use of Menactra [Meningococcal (Groups A, C, Y and W-135) Polysaccharide Diphtheria Toxoid Conjugate Vaccine] for booster vaccination against meningococcal disease in persons 15 years through 55 years of age.

Meningococcal disease, which includes meningococcal meningitis, is a serious bacterial infection that strikes approximately 800 to 1,200 Americans each year. Although rare, it can result in severe, permanent disabilities and death. Of those who survive, up to one in five are left with serious medical problems, which include amputation of arms, legs, fingers, or toes; neurologic damage; and deafness.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends routine administration of meningococcal conjugate vaccine to adolescents aged 11 through 18 years. Specifically, the CDC recommends persons receive one dose of vaccine at age 11 or 12 years, followed by a second (i.e. booster) vaccination at age 16 years, to help protect teens and young adults during the period when they are at increased risk of contracting meningococcal disease. It is important that health care providers and parents be aware of the need for a booster dose, as current data suggest that vaccine protection wanes in most teens within five years after the primary vaccination.

For more details, go to: http://sanofipasteurus.mediaroom.com/2014-09-08-FDA-Approves-Use-of-Menactra-Vaccine-for-Booster-Immunization-Against-Potentially-Deadly-Disease