once receiving metamune vax, howlong until your protected?

Sue Burd responds:

There are two meningococcal vaccines available in the U.S. One is called Menactra, and the other is called Menomune. Menactra was licensed in 2005 and is expected to provide longer-term immunity among people 2 through 55 years of age than Memomune. Menomune has been available since the 1970s. It may be used if Menactra is not available, and is the only meningococcal vaccine licensed for people older than 55. According to the CDC, protective antibody levels may be achieved within 7 to 10 days after vaccination with Menomune or Menactra.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends immunization with Menactra for all adolescents 11-18 years of age, and some states have passed legislation requiring immunization for adolescents.

It is important to know that while these vaccines protect against most types of meningococcal disease, they do not prevent all cases. Meningococcal disease can progress rapidly and is often misdiagnosed as something less serious because early symptoms are similar to the flu. Even those who have been vaccinated should know the symptoms of meningococcal disease, which can be found on the NMA Web site, at http://www.nmaus.org/meningitis/symptoms.htm.

Thank you for your question.

Sue Burd