What is the recommended age to receive the meningococcal vaccine?

The recommended age to receive the meningococcal vaccine begins at 11 years of age, with a booster dose typically recommended at 16 years. However, the vaccine is also recommended for high-risk groups at younger ages, including infants from as young as 6 weeks old in specific situations, such as during an outbreak or for those with certain medical conditions that increase their risk of meningococcal disease.

It's essential to understand that while there are generalized vaccination schedules, the timing can be adjusted based on individual health needs or regional health guidelines aimed at controlling outbreaks. Thus, the entry point for vaccination fit within the higher-risk categories starts as early as 6 weeks. This context is crucial for healthcare providers and pharmacy technicians to ensure that patients at risk receive the proper vaccination in a timely manner.