1. How dangerous is meningococcal meningitis and why is early vaccination important?
  Meningococcal meningitis is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis, which can progress rapidly and lead to serious consequences if not detected and treated promptly. The pathogen is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, particularly in crowded environments such as schools, dormitories, military barracks, or densely populated residential areas [1], [2].

  In clinical practice, the disease may present suddenly with symptoms including high fever, headache, neck stiffness, nausea, and altered consciousness. In many cases, it can rapidly progress to purulent meningitis or septicemia, with high mortality rates and a significant risk of long-term sequelae such as hearing loss, neurological impairment, or limb necrosis, even with intensive treatment [1].

  In Viet Nam, epidemiological data indicate that the disease continues to show an increasing trend. In 2025, nearly 100 meningococcal disease cases were reported nationwide, including at least 3 deaths. Since the beginning of 2026, 24 cases and 4 deaths have already been recorded [6], [10]. Recent localised outbreaks in areas such as Ca Mau, as well as fatal paediatric cases, highlight the severe and unpredictable nature of the disease. According to the Department of Preventive Medicine, the current number of cases is higher than during the same period last year, indicating that the risk of outbreaks remains present [10].

  Epidemiological studies conducted in Viet Nam also show that serogroups B and C account for approximately 92.3% of reported cases, underscoring the important role of vaccination against these two serogroups [7]. According to recommendations from global health organisations, vaccination remains the most effective measure to reduce disease incidence and control outbreaks within the community [2].

Image: Meningococcal meningitis disease.

2. What is the VA-MENGOC BC meningococcal vaccine?
  VA-MENGOC BC is a vaccine indicated for the prevention of meningococcal disease caused by serogroups B and C, developed to provide active immunisation against the two most common disease-causing bacterial serogroups. The vaccine combines outer membrane proteins (OMP) of serogroup B meningococcus with capsular polysaccharides of serogroup C, adsorbed onto aluminium hydroxide to enhance the immune response [8].

   VA-MENGOC BC: VACCINE FOR THE PREVENTION OF MENINGOCOCCAL DISEASE SEROGROUPS B & C

3. Scientific foundation and long-term real-world data
  One of the key strengths of VA-MENGOC BC is its extensive scientific and real-world evidence accumulated over decades. The vaccine was initially researched in the late 20th century, with scientific studies published in leading journals such as The Lancet, demonstrating effective immunogenicity against serogroup B meningococcus [3].

  Subsequent studies and post-marketing surveillance data have shown that the vaccine possesses a strong safety profile and good immunogenicity in large-scale immunisation programmes [4]. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), VA-MENGOC BC has been incorporated into national immunisation programmes in more than 15 countries and has played an important role in disease control [5].

  In Viet Nam, demand for meningococcal vaccines remains high due to the predominance of serogroups B and C in local epidemiology. After more than 15 years of use and over 9 million administered doses, reports have demonstrated a favourable safety profile and high protective effectiveness, with efficacy ranging from 80–100% and a very low adverse reaction rate (approximately 1 per 1,000,000 doses) [7].

  In addition, due to the antigenic properties of the outer membrane vesicle (OMV) complex, the vaccine may also induce cross-protective immune responses against certain other Neisseria strains, potentially broadening real-world protection [9].

4. Effectiveness and safety in immunisation practice
  The effectiveness and safety of VA-MENGOC BC have been documented in both clinical studies and real-world immunisation practice in Viet Nam. A study conducted at the Ho Chi Minh City Children’s Hospital involving 1,200 children demonstrated an approximately 80% reduction in meningococcal disease caused by serogroups B and C following vaccine introduction, while antibody response rates exceeded 95% with no severe adverse reactions reported [7].

  Another report involving 800 children also recorded an approximately 75% reduction in disease incidence after vaccination, with more than 85% of children achieving protective antibody levels [7].

  Regarding safety, post-vaccination reactions are generally mild and transient, most commonly including pain at the injection site, mild fever, or fatigue. These symptoms typically occur within the first 24 hours and resolve spontaneously within a few days, while serious adverse reactions are reported to be extremely rare [8].
  This extensive body of clinical and real-world evidence has helped establish VA-MENGOC BC as a reliable option in community immunisation programmes.

Image: Vaccination is a safe and effective disease prevention measure.

5. Vaccination schedule and indicated population
VA-MENGOC BC is indicated for individuals aged 6 months to 45 years. The primary vaccination schedule consists of two doses of 0.5 mL each, administered 6–8 weeks apart. The vaccine is given via deep intramuscular injection in accordance with professional guidelines to ensure optimal immunogenicity [8].

The vaccine is particularly recommended for individuals living in communal environments or areas with high epidemiological risk, where bacterial transmission and outbreaks are more likely to occur.

6. Safety considerations and administration guidance
  VA-MENGOC BC has a favourable safety profile; however, professional recommendations should be strictly followed during administration. The vaccine is contraindicated in individuals with a history of hypersensitivity to any vaccine component and vaccination should be postponed in individuals with acute febrile illness. Caution is advised in immunocompromised individuals or those with coagulation disorders [8].

  The vaccine must be stored at 2–8°C, must not be frozen, and should be handled using proper aseptic techniques. Maintaining the cold chain is essential to preserving vaccine potency and effectiveness.

7. Proactive vaccination – A sustainable strategy for community protection
As meningococcal meningitis continues to pose a risk of rapid spread and severe progression, proactive vaccination remains a critical strategy for protecting both individual and public health. Immunisation not only reduces disease incidence but also contributes to outbreak control and alleviates the burden on healthcare systems.  

With a strong scientific foundation, extensive long-term real-world data, and proven effectiveness, VA-MENGOC BC represents a reliable option for the prevention of meningococcal meningitis, particularly in countries with high epidemiological risk such as Viet Nam.

NAVIVA GROUP
“Community health is our happiness!”

Contact Information:

NAM HUNG VIET Vaccine & Biological Products Joint Stock Company
Address: No. 89, Nguyen Thi Thap Street, Him Lam Area, Tan Hung Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Phone: 028 2223 2425

TUONG KHUE Pharmaceutical Joint Stock Company
Address: 33 Le Lai Street, Hai Chau Ward, Da Nang City
Phone: 0236 3538 666

WINBIO Joint Stock Company
Address: K7TT1 – SH19, Starlake Urban Area, Xuan Dinh Ward, Hanoi Capital
Phone: 024 3795 6789

References:
[1] World Health Organization, “Meningococcal meningitis,” 2023. [Online]. Available: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/meningococcal-meningitis

[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Meningococcal disease,” 2024. [Online]. Available: https://www.cdc.gov/meningococcal/index.html

[3] G. V. Sierra et al., “Vaccine against group B Neisseria meningitidis: Protection trial and mass vaccination results in Cuba,” The Lancet, vol. 338, no. 8776, pp. 1094–1098, 1991.

[4] O. Pérez et al., “Safety and immunogenicity of the VA-MENGOC-BC® vaccine,” Human Vaccines, vol. 5, no. 8, pp. 547–553, 2009.

[5] Pan American Health Organization, “VA-MENGOC-BC vaccine reports,” n.d. [Online]. Available: https://www.paho.org

[6] Ministry of Health of Viet Nam, “Effectiveness of meningococcal disease vaccines in Viet Nam,” 2025.

[7] Ministry of Health of Viet Nam, “Guidelines for the prevention and control of meningococcal disease,” n.d.

[8] Naviva Group / Manufacturer, “VA-MENGOC BC vaccine product information,” n.d.

[9] R. F. Ochoa-Azze, “Cross-protection induced by VA-MENGOC-BC® vaccine,” Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics, vol. 14, no. 5, pp. 1064–1068, 2018.

[10] Suc khoe & Doi song, “Four deaths from meningococcal disease reported: Four Ministry of Health recommendations for prevention,” 2026. [Online]. Available: https://suckhoedoisong.vn/da-co-4-ca-tu-vong-do-nao-mo-cau-can-biet-4-khuyen-cao-phong-benh-cua-bo-y-te-16926041310563572.htm