Meningitis vaccine recommended for all children
A vaccine committee has adviced the US Government that all children ages 11 to 18 receive a meningitis vaccine that is now more plentiful.
The story by the Associated Press emphasizes that mass vaccinations would not take place, but doctors are should at least offer it.
From the AP:
At issue is Menactra, an $89-a-dose vaccine made by Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines subsidiary of Sanofi-Aventis Group. The government approved it in 2005. The vaccine is designed to prevent bacterial meningitis and an associated bloodstream infection. The disease is not common in the United States, but in those who get it, symptoms develop quickly and can lead to death in only a couple of days.The bacteria is spread by coughing, sneezing and kissing, and most cases occur in previously healthy children and young adults. It can be easily spread in college dorms.