The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends routine vaccination with the meningococcal conjugated quadrivalent vaccine (MenACWY) in which of the following age groups?

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) specifically recommends routine vaccination with the meningococcal conjugated quadrivalent vaccine (MenACWY) for individuals aged 11 to 12 years. This age group is targeted because it coincides with a critical period of increasing exposure to the bacteria that cause meningococcal disease, which can be particularly severe and lead to serious health complications. Vaccination during this time also helps establish long-term immunity as adolescents transition into young adulthood, a time when the risk of infection may increase.

The recommendation supports the prevention of meningococcal disease outbreaks, especially in communal living settings such as college dormitories, where the risk is heightened. While earlier vaccination strategies may consider those younger than this age range under specific circumstances, routine vaccination is emphasized for pre-teens to ensure broad protection among adolescents as they grow older and engage in social activities that increase their risk.