Answer:

Vietnam currently offers vaccines protecting against five prevalent meningococcal serogroups: A, B, C, Y, and W. This includes three types of new-generation quadrivalent meningococcal vaccines, which protect against serogroups A, C, Y, and W; the earliest of these can be administered to infants from six weeks of age. Additionally, a new-generation vaccine for meningococcal group B is available for infants from two months old, and another meningococcal vaccine, covering both groups B and C, can be given from six months of age.

According to manufacturer prescribing information, the meningococcal group B vaccine can be administered concurrently with several other vaccines in the same session. These include: the quadrivalent meningococcal vaccine (for groups A, C, Y, and W), influenza, 6-in-1, pneumococcal, hepatitis B, measles, and varicella. Infants will receive injections at different sites. This practice does not alter the immune response of individual vaccines nor does it increase the incidence of post-vaccination reactions.

Given the complex progression of meningococcal disease, with numerous cases detected and increased domestic and international travel, the epidemiology of meningococcal disease is becoming more unpredictable. Therefore, it is advisable to ensure children receive full vaccination against all meningococcal serogroups and other recommended vaccines for early protection.

When attending vaccination appointments, individuals should adhere to the procedures guided by doctors, nurses, or medical staff at the vaccination facility. Everyone should remain at the vaccination site for at least 30 minutes for post-vaccination observation, then continue monitoring at home for 24 to 48 hours. Common post-vaccination reactions, such as pain, swelling, localized lumps, fever, discomfort, and fatigue, typically resolve on their own within one to two days without requiring treatment. In cases of high fever exceeding 38,5 degrees C, antipyretics can be administered as directed by a doctor.

Children are brought by parents to VNVC for vaccination against two types of meningococcal disease, protecting against all five pathogenic serogroups. *Photo: Hoang Duong*

Meningococcal disease is a dangerous acute infectious disease. The bacteria commonly reside in the nasopharynx and spread through the respiratory tract via respiratory droplets or accidental contact with contaminated surfaces. Within the community, the carrier rate among healthy individuals can be as high as 10-20%, increasing in epidemic areas. These carriers pose a significant risk of transmission to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, individuals with underlying health conditions, and pregnant women.

The two most common forms of invasive meningococcal disease are meningitis and septicemia, though both can occur concurrently, or other less common manifestations may appear. The disease carries a high mortality rate; without timely treatment, one in two infected individuals may die. Even with early detection and aggressive treatment, the mortality rate remains substantial. Furthermore, approximately 20% of invasive meningococcal disease survivors face severe complications, including limb amputation, brain damage, paralysis, or deafness.

Notably, the initial symptoms of meningococcal disease are often subtle and easily mistaken for common illnesses like pharyngitis, the common cold, or influenza, presenting as fever, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. However, the disease progresses rapidly, with a risk of death within 24 hours of symptom onset.

Doctor Huynh Tran An Khuong

(Medical Specialist, VNVC Vaccination System)

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