Which immunization should a nurse administer to an 11 to 12-year-old child during a well-child visit?

The meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) is recommended for administration to children between the ages of 11 and 12. This immunization is crucial as it protects against several strains of Neisseria meningitidis, which can lead to serious illnesses such as meningitis and bloodstream infections. The vaccine is typically administered as part of the adolescent immunization schedule to help establish immunity before the child enters high school or college, times when they may be at increased risk for meningococcal disease due to changes in social living conditions.

In contrast, the trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine is more appropriate during the flu season, typically administered annually but not specifically for a well-child visit at the 11-12-year age mark. The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) is usually given earlier in childhood, and the DTaP vaccine is administered during earlier developmental stages—specifically at 2, 4, 6, 15-18 months and 4-6 years of age. Therefore, MCV4 stands out as the most relevant immunization to offer at this age during a well-child visit.