A policy review of the introduction of the MenACWY vaccine in toddlers across multiple countries

Introduction

Immunization is the best strategy to protect individuals from invasive meningococcal disease (IMD). To support decision-making around immunization, this paper considers what has led four countries and regions of two more to introduce the quadrivalent MenACWY vaccine in toddlers (ages 12–24 months).

Areas covered

A narrative literature review was conducted to identify countries that have introduced a MenACWY vaccination program for toddlers. Information from peer-reviewed publications, reports, and policy documents for each identified country was extracted. Australia, Chile, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and regions of Italy and Spain have introduced the MenACWY vaccine in their toddler programs, driven by the rising incidence of MenW and MenY and the vaccine’s ability to provide protection against other serogroups. Australia and the Netherlands considered the economic impacts of implementing a MenACWY toddler vaccination program. Vaccination uptake and effects are reported for three countries; however, in two, isolating the vaccine’s effect from the collateral effect of COVID-related measures is difficult.

Expert opinion

Increased convergence of vaccination policies and programs is needed internationally, as IMD recognizes no borders.

Plain Language Summary 

Vaccination is the best defense against meningitis, a deadly disease. While someone of any age can contract it, children 0–24 months of age are disproportionately affected. The increasing number of cases of meningitis has led four countries plus regions of two more to introduce into their vaccination schedules for toddlers (ages 12–24 months) a vaccine that protects against four different serogroups rather than one serogroup alone. This paper considers what has driven that shift.