February 15th 2025
The combination vaccine targets 5 groups of the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis (A,B,C,W, AND Y) that cause the most invasive meningococcal disease cases (IMD) globally.
Photoclinic: Vaccine-Induced Herpes Zoster
August 1st 2005In the Photoclinic item titled "Vaccine-Induced Herpes Zoster," by Julie L. Cantatore-Francis, MD, and Yelva Lynfield, MD (Consultant For Pediatricians, June 2005, pages 290 and 291), the dosage of acyclovir was incorrectly printed as 80 mg/d divided into 4 doses. The correct dosage is 80 mg/kg/d divided into 4 doses. We apologize for the error.
Meningococcal Immunization Update: A New Conjugate Vaccine
June 1st 2005With the significant decline in disease caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b and Streptococcus pneumoniae achieved through vaccination, Neisseria meningitidis has moved to the forefront. Its emergence as the most important cause of bacterial meningitis challenges the pediatrician to prevent and control this terrible disease. Meningococcal disease can be easily misdiagnosed. It may present with different clinical manifestations, and its signs and symptoms may mimic those of common viral illnesses, such as influenza. The onset and progression of meningococcal disease are rapid. Although the rate of disease is highest in infants, morbidity and mortality rates for this disease are highest in adolescents and young adults, despite the existence of effective therapies.1