Dear Doctor,

GlaxoSmithKline is pleased to inform you of the forthcoming launch of
Mencevax ACWY Monodose.

Mencevax ACWY Monodose is a lyophilized preparation of purified polysaccharides from Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus) of serogroups A, C, W₁₃₅ and Y.

·         Mencevax ACWY Monodose is indicated for the active immunization of adults and children two years of age and older against meningococcal meningitis caused by meningococci of serogroups A, C, W₁₃₅ and Y.

·         Mencevax ACWY Monodose is contained in 0.5 ml. The vaccine must be reconstituted by adding the entire contents of the supplied container of diluent to the vaccine vial. The vaccine pellet should be completely dissolved in the diluent.

·         In developed countries the incidence rate of meningococcal disease is 1-12/100,000 per year. while in the developing world the incidence rates of meningococcal disease is 25/100,000 per year. During an epidemic, the attack rates may reach 1,000/100,000 [1] cases.

·         In Israel there were 49 reported case in 2001 and 42 reported cases until end of August 2002. This low endemity enhances the importance of being vaccinated for travelers who travel to endemic areas such as certain parts of Africa, the Indian subcontinent and other parts of Asia, and parts of South America .

·         Based on the International Health Regulations (IHR) , Saudi Arabia requires a certificate of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis from all pilgrims and visitors to the Islamic holy places. In Israel, many citizens travel to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj. [2]

·         In cases where repeated exposure occurs, the vaccination may be repeated after 2-3 years, in subjects who remain at risk. [3]

·         Mencevax ACWY Monodose efficacy is very high ~95%.

Attached, please find the “Prescribing Information” as approved by the Ministry of Health.

We will be pleased to provide you with any additional information.

Yours sincerely,

Noam Barkai – Vaccines Manager