Menactra is a type of meningococcal vaccine that is used to prevent bacterial meningitis and other invasive meningococcal diseases. It is approved for people who are between the ages of 9 months and 55 years old. The injection is given as a single dose, usually in the upper arm. As with any vaccine, side effects are possible; common ones include fatigue, headache, and swelling at the injection site.
What Is Menactra?Menactra® (meningococcal vaccine) is used to provide protection against invasive meningococcal disease caused by the Neisseria meningitidis bacteria. It is approved for use in individuals 9 months through 55 years of age. Invasive meningococcal diseases include:
- Bacterial meningitis (a bacterial infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord)
- Bloodstream infections.
(Click Menactra Uses for more information on what the vaccine is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
Thimerosal Content and Other ConcernsMenactra does not contain thimerosal, a mercury-containing preservative. People who are concerned about exposure to this substance can be confident that this vaccine has no thimerosal -- not even trace amounts. Some people also are concerned about the aluminum content of vaccines. This vaccine contains no aluminum.
Menactra is not made from animal components or human fetal cell lines, unlike some vaccines.