Name of the Procedure:

Meningococcal conjugate vaccine, serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine (Hib-MenCY), 4 dose schedule, intramuscular administration

Summary

The Hib-MenCY vaccine is administered to children between the ages of 6 weeks and 18 months to protect against infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroups C & Y and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Given in four doses, this vaccine helps to build immunity and prevent serious illnesses such as meningitis and sepsis.

Purpose

The vaccine addresses the risk of bacterial infections from Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae type b. The goal is to induce immunity and significantly reduce the incidence of potentially life-threatening infections such as bacterial meningitis, bacteremia, pneumonia, and epiglottitis.

Indications

• Children aged 6 weeks to 18 months
• Routine immunization schedule
• Increased risk due to underlying health conditions or in geographic areas with higher disease prevalence

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are required.
• Ensure the child is healthy at the time of vaccination.
• Review the child’s immunization history and check for any contraindications.

Procedure Description

1. The child is seated or held securely.
2. The skin over the thigh or deltoid muscle is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
3. The healthcare provider uses a sterile syringe to inject the vaccine intramuscularly.
4. The injection site is covered with a small bandage if necessary.
5. The child is observed for a short period to monitor for any immediate adverse reactions.

Tools and Equipment:

• Sterile syringe and needle
• Antiseptic solution
• Bandage

No anesthesia or sedation is needed for this procedure.

Duration

The injection itself takes only a few seconds, but the entire appointment, including observation time, typically lasts about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The vaccine is usually administered in a pediatrician's office, health clinic, or outpatient facility.

Personnel

• Pediatrician
• Nurse or trained healthcare professional

Risks and Complications

Common:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
• Mild fever
• Irritability

Rare:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
• High fever
• Persistent crying

Benefits

• Provides immunity against meningococcal serogroups C & Y and Hib
• Reduces the risk of life-threatening infections
• Protection begins shortly after completing the vaccine series

Recovery

• Monitor the child for any adverse reactions for 24 hours after the injection.
• Administer over-the-counter pain relievers if needed for discomfort (as directed by a healthcare provider).
• Follow up with subsequent doses as scheduled.

Alternatives

• Separate vaccinations for Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and meningococcal serogroups C & Y
• Discuss with your healthcare provider for other available vaccines and their schedules

Patient Experience

• The child may experience brief pain or discomfort during the injection.
• Some fussiness or mild fever might occur afterward, but these symptoms usually resolve without intervention.
• Comfort measures such as cuddling, breastfeeding, or distraction techniques can help soothe the child.