Teens Need Two Different Meningococcal Vaccines
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Vaccine NewsMeningococcal meningitis is a feared disease among parents. News of a child with meningitis is often accompanied by concerns and fears throughout a school and community. Now, with the aid of two vaccines, these scary occurrences can become even less frequent.
One version, known as meningococcus ACWY, protects against four of the five types of meningococcus and has been recommended for teens for several years. The first dose is indicated at 11 or 12 years of age with a booster at 16 years. Most parents are aware of this vaccine.
However, many parents and teenagers are unaware of a second, newer, meningococcal vaccine, known as the meningococcal B vaccine. This vaccine is recommended for all 16 to 18 year olds.
In the short video that follows, Dr. Offit discusses the meningococcal B vaccine.
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