Meningococcal vaccine effectiveness and booster requirements in Vietnam

Following a student's death caused by meningococcal disease, health experts are clarifying the duration of protection provided by meningococcal vaccines. The disease, caused by Neisseria meningitidis, can progress rapidly and lead to death within hours if not treated promptly.

According to the Ho Chi Minh City Center for Disease Control (HCDC), the duration of vaccine protection varies by type and individual, ranging from several months to over 10 years. For the MenACWY vaccine, which protects against serogroups A, C, W, and Y, protection decreases over time. Consequently, boosters are recommended for adolescents to maintain immunity during high-risk periods.

Similarly, studies on the MenB vaccine indicate that antibody levels decrease after the initial vaccination schedule is completed. While the VA MENGOC BC vaccine from Cuba does not require boosters after two doses, experts note that protection levels may still trend downward over time. Medical professionals advise that vaccine selection should be based on age, vaccination history, health status, and specific risk factors.