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Meningococcal conjugate type C (MenconC) vaccine

Learn about the MenconC vaccine, effectiveness, side effects, and safety

Disease it protects from

The MenconC vaccine protects against meningococcal disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis type C bacteria.

Who should get this vaccine

As part of the routine immunization schedule, children get this vaccine starting at age 4 months. You may also get this vaccine after close contact with someone with type C meningococcal disease.

Who should not get this vaccine

You may not be able to get this vaccine if:

  • You have an allergy to any part of the vaccine.
  • You had a severe (serious) or unusual side effect after this vaccine or one like it.

If you have allergies or have had a side effect from this vaccine, check with your doctor or a public health nurse before you get the vaccine.

Although you can get the vaccine if you have a mild illness such as a cold or fever, you should stay home until you are feeling better.

Doses

Children need 2 doses, which are usually given at ages 4 and 12 months.

You need fewer doses if you get your first dose after age 12 months. However, delaying this immunization is not recommended because babies have a high risk of getting this disease.

If you’re getting this vaccine because you had contact with someone with type C meningococcal disease, your healthcare provider will tell you how many doses you need.

Other vaccines that protect against the same diseases

MenC-ACYW protects against types A, C, Y, and W-135 meningococcal disease. Grade 9 students can get this vaccine as part of the school immunization program. This will boost their protection against type C meningococcal disease and protect them from types A, Y, and W-135.

You may also get this vaccine if you travel to an area that has a high risk of meningococcal disease or you have other health problems.

Children who get MenC-ACYW don’t need MenconC.

Men-B is a vaccine that protects against type B meningococcal disease. You may also need this vaccine along with the MenC-ACYW vaccine if you have certain types of health problems.

Get the vaccine

You can get the vaccine at your local public health or community health centre.

Current as of: June 30, 2023
Author: Provincial Immunization Program, Alberta Health Services
Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands, including the territories of Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements. We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta.