The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has a new recommendation in regard to the meningitis vaccine. This recommendation now includes a booster. The recommendation for routine vaccination of persons with quadrivalent Meningococcal conjugate vaccine at age 11 or 12 years, with a booster dose at age 16 years. For adolescents who receive the first dose at age 13 through 15 years, a one-time booster dose should be administered, preferably at age 16 through 18 years, before the peak in increased risk. Persons who receive their first dose of Meningococcal conjugate vaccine at or after age 16 years do not need a booster dose.
MENINGOCOCCAL IMMUNIZATION INFORMATION
House bill 1827 enacted by the Legislature of the State of Washington requires that all degree-granting institutions inform students of the following information about meningitis:
Students living in residence halls are at slightly increased risk for bacterial meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis is a deadly disease, sometimes within hours after the first symptoms. The symptoms are flu-like such as fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light, and lethargy. Immediate medical care is needed if two or more of these symptoms occur at one time.
- A safe vaccine exists that can reduce the risk. Please consult with your doctor, your county health clinic, or come to the Health Center for a vaccination.
For additional information follow the CDC link Updated Recommendations for use of Meningococcal Conjugate Vaccines.
Please consult with your health care provider or come in for the vaccine at our Health Center.
If you have any questions or want more information contact the Health Center at (509)313-4066.
The Health Center highly recommends this vaccination.