[Press Release] : FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Meningitis Vaccine Available

[Press Releases]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Trina Teacutter, Nursing Supervisor
573.874.6303 or tdteacut at GoColumbiaMo.com 
or
Geni Alexander, Public Information Officer
573.874.7632 or gaalexan at GoColumbiaMo.com 

Meningitis Vaccine Available

COLUMBIA, MO (May 19, 2011) - For Immediate Release

May 19, 2011

 

Public Health and Human Services Recommends Meningitis Vaccine

Graduates May Need Vaccination Before Entering College

 

Adolescents and young adults ages 16 through 21 are at highest risk for meningococcal disease, accounting for nearly 15% of all US cases annually. One out of seven of those will result in death. The Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and Human Services reminds parents to consider the importance of a meningococcal vaccination, which protects against bacterial meningitis.

 

While a first dose is recommended at age 11 or 12, some children reach the vulnerable age of 16 unvaccinated. The vaccine protects for about five years, so a booster shot is necessary five years after the first vaccination. Most US colleges require an up-to-date vaccination for admission.

 

The health department offers Menactra, the meningococcal vaccine, for $15, payable by cash, check or credit card. We cannot bill private insurance, but can bill Medicaid. Our clinic, located at 1005 West Worley in Columbia, is open Monday - Friday from 8 am - 4:30 pm. No appointment is needed.

 

For more information, visit http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/mening/default.htm or contact the health department clinic at 573-874-7356.

 

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