What is the routine schedule for vaccinating adolescents with MCV4?

The recommended immunization schedule for the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) includes a primary dose given to adolescents at ages 11 to 12 years, followed by a booster dose at age 16 years. This schedule is designed to ensure that adolescents have optimal immunity during a critical time of increased risk for meningococcal disease, particularly during their teenage years and early adulthood. The primary dose provides initial protection, while the booster is crucial to enhance and prolong immunity, as protection from the vaccine can wane over time leading into the later teenage years.

This vaccination strategy aligns with guidelines provided by health authorities such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The additional booster dose at age 16 is important because it helps maintain protective immunity as adolescents transition into higher-risk environments, such as college or crowded living situations, where the incidence of meningococcal disease can be higher.

In contrast, the other options suggest either inadequate timing or number of doses for effective immunization against meningococcal disease, which may leave individuals vulnerable to infection. This is why the correct choice emphasizes both the initial dose and the necessary booster at the appropriate ages.