Two brands of the MenACWY vaccine will be used. Both vaccines, Nimenrix® (Pfizer Australia, Ltd.) and Menveo® (GSK Australia) protect against the four types of meningococcal bacteria A, C, W and Y and are similar in terms of safety and efficacy.
- Nimenrix® can be given as a single dose to persons from age 12 months.*
- Menveo® can be given as a single dose to persons aged from 2 years.*
Information regarding Nimenrix®
The manufacturer has recommended using a smaller sized needle for drawing up than the size recommended in the Handbook. The reason for this is that, in some instances, small particulates from the stopper can get pushed into the vial with the larger needle and then drawn up in the syringe. While the particulates are not harmful if injected, the smaller needle size will prevent that from happening. Please refer to the table below for more information.
Vaccine Brand |
Needle size for drawing up |
Needle size for administration (as per the Australian Immunisation Handbook) |
Nimenrix |
23G |
23G or 25G, 25 mm |
Menveo |
21G |
23G or 25G, 25 mm |
*To ensure there are sufficient vaccine supplies for each age group:
- Nimenrix® should now be reserved for administration to children aged 12 months to less than 2 years
- when available, Menveo® should be used exclusively for children aged 2 years and older. This advice may change depending on supply.
Refer to Vaccination Guidance table for details.