Meningokokkenimpfung

Invasive meningococcal diseases (IME) are rare but have a high morbidity and mortality. In Germany, infections by meningococcal serogroup B (MenB) dominate in infants and small children. As from 2024 the German Standing Committee on Vaccination at the Robert Koch Institute (STIKO) recommends a MenB standard vaccination with a 2 + 1 schedule for infants and toddlers up to an age of <5 years that begins early. Over the age of 2 years (≥24 months) 2 doses at an interval of 1 month are sufficient. Because of the high reactogenicity, paracetamol prophylaxis should be carried out for children < 2 years old. The MenB recommendations for indications hold true for all other age groups. The MenC vaccination remains the standard vaccination in infancy. Against the background of an altered epidemiology, an adjustment of the vaccination program with MenACWY vaccines seems sensible. Pentavalent Men vaccines are in preparation.