Meningitis - New Recomendations 2011
MENINGITIS VACCINATIONS
Updated recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
As of January, 2011, two new recommendations have been published for meningitis vaccine
(i. e., Menactra).
- Routine vaccination of adolescents, preferably at age 11 or 12 years, with a booster
dose at age 16. - A two year dose primary series administered 2 months apart for persons aged 2 through
54 years who have certain risk factors.
Persons who receive their first dose of meningitis vaccine at age 11 or 12 years should receive a
booster dose at age 16.
For persons who receive the first dose at age 13 through 15, a one-time booster dose should be given at age 16 through 18 years.
Persons who receive their first dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine at or after age 16
years do not need a booster dose.
College students living in a dormitory are more susceptible to meningitis, as this disease is
spread by sharing eating utensils, coughing, sneezing, and living in close proximity to each
other. Although meningococcal disease has decreased since 2000, when it does occur, it is most common in persons 18 years of age.
University Health Services strongly urges all incoming students to contact their personal
medical providers for guidance regarding meningitis vaccination.
