Mato Grosso do Sul expands meningococcal ACWY vaccination

meningococcal ACWY vaccine immunization strategy meningitis prevention public health vaccination expansion

The State Health Secretariat (SES) in Mato Grosso do Sul has recommended an exceptional and temporary expansion of the target audience for the meningococcal ACWY vaccine. This measure aims to increase protection against meningococcal disease and strengthen immunization efforts in accordance with the National Immunization Program (PNI) guidelines.

The strategy involves intensifying the active search for children under five and adolescents aged 11 to 14 who are unvaccinated or have incomplete vaccination schedules. Additionally, the resolution suggests that the ACWY vaccine may replace the meningococcal C vaccine for infants at three and five months of age.

Depending on vaccine availability and coverage levels, the expansion may eventually include adolescents aged 15 to 17 and healthcare workers. Immunization Manager Frederico Moraes advised parents and guardians to check vaccination records and visit health units to ensure all necessary doses are administered.