Experience with MCV-4, a meningococcal, diphtheria toxoid conjugate vaccine against serogroups A, C, Y and W-135

Invasive disease due to Neisseria meningitidis continues to cause debility and death worldwide in otherwise healthy individuals. Disease epidemiology varies globally, but most cases are due to serogroups A, B, C, W-135 or Y. Menactra (TM) (MCV-4), a quadrivalent, meningococcal diphtheria-conjugate vaccine against serogroups A, C, Y, and W-135, was licensed in the USA for individuals 11-55 years of age. Published results of clinical trials demonstrated robust immune responses that correlate with indicators of protection. MCV-4-induced antibody persist for up to 3 years after administration and anamnestic responses to revaccination. The vaccine was well tolerated; the most common reactions were transient, mild injection-site reactions and headache. MCV-4 should provide significant clinical benefits in the future.