Press Release
Since 2005, the meningococcal C-conjugate vaccine has been publicly-funded to protect against type C, invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), which includes meningitis or blood infection caused by type C Neisseria meningitidis bacteria.
The Northwestern Health Unit again will be offering this vaccine to Grade 7 students at school clinics during April and May.
Meningococcal bacteria is spread through saliva passing from one person to another by, for example, sharing food, utensils, cups or bottles, lip balm or lipstick, cigarettes, and/or musical instruments.
Symptoms of IMD include headache, fever and fatigue, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, dizziness, and sometimes a red blotchy rash.
Outbreaks often happen in schools, dormitories, and in the community, affecting infants, teens, and young adults most often.
IMD can be treated with antibiotics, but since it can spread and kill quickly, prevention is ideal.
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI), the Canadian Pediatric Society, and the Northwestern Health Unit strongly recommend all eligible students and youths be immunized with the meningococcal C-conjugate vaccine.
Anyone born in 1985 or since, who has not yet received a dose of this vaccine, also can obtain the vaccine, free of charge, by making an appointment with their local Northwestern Health Unit office or their family physician.
Students and parents interested in clinic locations and times should contact their health unit office.
