Meningococcal Vaccine Supply Increased; Deferral Request Lifted

The manufacturer of tetravalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4; Menactra) reports that previous limitations in the vaccine supply have resolved. Therefore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that physicians resume routine vaccination according to recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Groups that should be vaccinated include children 11 to 12 years of age, adolescents entering high school (if not previously vaccinated), and college freshmen living in dormitories. Because of problems with vaccine supply, the CDC recommended in May 2006 that physicians defer vaccination of children 11 to 12 years of age. The CDC now recommends that physicians recall these patients for vaccination, if possible.