Men-C-ACYW-135 Protection: Side Effects & Safety
Meningococcal vaccines are used in Canada to protect against serious infections caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis. These infections can lead to invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), which can be life-threatening. The Men-C-ACYW-135 vaccine helps protect against four types (serogroups) of this bacteria: A, C, Y, and W-135.
Like all medicines and vaccines, the Men-C-ACYW-135 vaccine can cause side effects.
Not everyone will experience side effects, and when they do happen, they are usually mild and go away on their own within a few days. More serious side effects are rare, but they can occur.
This page explains some of the known benefits and risks of the meningococcal vaccine that is approved for use in Canada:
- Menactra®
This information is based on the official Product Monograph and guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) and the Canadian Immunization Guide. It does not replace a conversation with your healthcare provider. Always speak with your provider about what is right for you or your child.
Menactra®
Common, usually mild side effects:
Most side effects are short-term and similar to other routine vaccines. These reactions typically appear soon after vaccination and resolve on their own within a few days.
Where the needle goes in (injection site):
- Pain or soreness
- Redness
- Swelling
- Hard lump (Induration)
General Reactions:
- Headache
- Feeling tired (Fatigue)
- Feeling unwell (Malaise)
- Joint Pain
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
Some people — especially adolescents — may feel lightheaded or faint after any injection. For this reason, individuals are usually asked by healthcare providers to sit or lie down for 15 minutes after vaccination to reduce the risk of injury from fainting.
Rare, but more serious side effects:
Very rarely, a person can have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Symptoms may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Swelling of the face or throat
- Significant Hives (raised, red, itchy bumps or welts on your skin)
These reactions are medical emergencies. If they occur, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Who should not receive Menactra®?
This vaccine should not be given to individuals who:
- Have had a severe allergic reaction (including anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of Menactra®
- Have a known severe allergy to any ingredient in the vaccine or its container
Your healthcare provider will review your medical history before vaccination.
Special Situations
Your healthcare provider may discuss meningococcal vaccination in more detail if:
- You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- You have a weakened immune system
- You have a history of severe allergic reactions to vaccines or injectable medicines
Meningococcal vaccines are not live vaccines and cannot cause meningococcal infection.
Product Monographs & Additional Information
Product monographs are technical documents. If you have questions or would like detailed medical information, your healthcare provider can review these documents with you:
- Menactra® – Full safety and prescribing information
- Canadian Immunization Guide on Meningococcal Vaccines
- National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) Statement on meningococcal vaccines available in Canada
Disclaimer:
This page provides general information about Men-C-ACYW-135 vaccines, including side-effects, and available vaccines in Canada. It does not recommend, promote, or endorse any specific product. For guidance tailored to you or your child, please consult a healthcare provider.
The materials presented are developed by Praxus Health. Any financial supporters do not participate in developing editorial content. All content is developed, reviewed, and approved independently to ensure balance and accuracy.